Planning continues for the inaugural Tour de Pines as the Wood County Old Settlers Reunion Board of Directors and local cycling organizers work to establish an annual destination ride for cyclists across Texas while raising funds to help bring the midway carnival back to the Wood County Old Settlers Reunion.
Tour de Pines is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15, with riders departing from Hainesville. There will be three route options available for riders of all cycling levels. For recreational cyclists, there will be a scenic 27-mile tour. Intermediate challengers will face a 40-mile ride, while experienced endurance cyclists take on a 62-mile challenge.
Proceeds from the event will help offset the cost of returning the carnival during the Wood County Old Settlers Reunion, scheduled for Oct. 31-Nov. 1 at Governor Hogg City Park in Quitman.
Board members recently met with veteran cycling organizer Mike Gilmore and experienced cyclists to review plans and discuss what makes organized rides successful. The group focused on route design, rider amenities, safety and event logistics.
According to Gilmore and other experienced riders, well-planned routes, clearly marked courses and well-stocked rest stops are among the features that encourage cyclists to return to annual events.
Organizers developed the multiple route options to accommodate riders with varying levels of experience while highlighting some of Wood County’s scenic rural roads. Rest stops staffed by churches and community organizations are also being planned along the routes, with volunteers providing water, sports drinks, snacks and rider support.
“We want people to leave saying this is a ride they can’t wait to come back to,” OSR board member Brook Rogers said during the planning meeting.
Safety remains a primary focus as preparations continue. Spearheaded by OSR Treasurer Joanne Wisdom, she and other board members are coordinating with local officials and volunteers on traffic control, route support, communications and rider assistance. Plans also include support vehicles, experienced radio volunteers and directional signage throughout the course.
Beyond the ride itself, organizers envision Tour de Pines as an event that benefits the entire community. Many organized cycling events attract participants who travel with family members, creating additional business for local restaurants, hotels, retailers and vendors throughout the weekend.
Discussion is also continuing about the possibility of opening up the start/finish area in Hainesville, to vendors, which would allow local businesses and organizations to participate in the event.
Gilmore encouraged the board members present to focus on building a strong foundation during the inaugural year, noting that many of Texas’ best-known cycling events developed their reputations over many years through consistent organization and positive rider experiences.
Board and cycling organizers have already begun promoting Tour de Pines at cycling events across Texas and believe the August date could appeal to riders preparing for larger late-summer events.
While organizers project Tour de Pines eventually becoming a regular stop on the Texas cycling calendar, the event’s immediate goal is to support one of Wood County’s longest-running traditions by helping fund the return of the midway carnival at this year’s Old Settlers Reunion.
Registration for Tour de Pines is open, and organizers are seeking sponsors and volunteers as preparations move forward for the Aug. 15 event.