8th Annual Event Benefits Sunshine Kids Foundation Winter Games

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo., May 11, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Steamboat Springs is known for its incredible cycling routes, some of the best in the country. This summer cyclists from around the world are invited to experience first hand what sets riding in Steamboat apart, by participating in the 8th annual Kent Eriksen Tour de Steamboat on July 21, 2012. The two-day fundraising event benefiting the Sunshine Kids Foundation offers three courses: 110-mile century course, 40-mile out and back, and a 25-mile loop.

“The Tour de Steamboat exemplifies what Steamboat’s cycling community is all about, enjoying the outdoors, taking great rides and supporting an important cause,” says Brad Cusenbary, co-founder of the event.

The 110-mile century of the Tour de Steamboat takes riders from the heart of downtown Steamboat over three mountain passes, rising 6,978 vertical feet, before returning to town. The high mountain terrain ride contains portions of the same route that the 2011 Quizno’s Pro Challenge participants rode during the inaugural event last August. The 40-mile course provides a scenic route to Stagecoach Reservoir before returning on the same route back to downtown Steamboat Springs. Finally, the 25-mile course is a rolling ride through Sidney Peak Ranch.

In addition to the rides, the weekend will also include several parties for participants, supporters and community members. Steamboat Ski and Bike Kare will host a rider reception on July 19th that will highlight course insight and tips and tricks for bike maintenance. The Benefit Dinner on July 20th sponsored by Prudential Steamboat Realty goes directly to the Sunshine Kids Foundation. The evening includes silent and live auctions, Sunshine Kids Foundation spokes-kids and live entertainment.

The Street Party & BBQ, sponsored by Wells Fargo and New Belgium Brewery takes place in Lil’ Toot’s Park in downtown Steamboat Springs at 4pm on July 21st. Riders, supporters and community members are invited to celebrate the tour with live entertainment, food, drinks and a legendary bike drawing. Eriksen Cycles will give away one custom road bike frame, valued at $3,000. Tickets to win the bike are $10 and can be purchased at the Prudential Steamboat Realty office, online, or at the Benefit Dinner. Winner need not be present to collect this incredible prize.

“All the money raised through the Tour de Steamboat goes directly towards the Sunshine Kids Foundation’s Winter Games in Steamboat,” says Cusenbary. “The Winter Games are an opportunity for children diagnosed with cancer from around the country to gather in Steamboat, make new friends and play in the snow. Not only are supporters enjoying a wonderful ride, they’re helping introduce the joys of skiing and winter recreation to children who may not otherwise have the chance.”

Event registration is now open at www.tourdesteamboat.com. Ride entries are limited and the event sells out quickly. Registration includes the ride, a ticket to the celebration BBQ, and an event t-shirt. Guests can also purchase benefit dinner tickets, additional BBQ tickets and TDS jerseys online, and check out course descriptions, routes, and Sunshine Kids Foundation information.

For more information about the Sunshine Kids Foundation and the Steamboat Winter Games please visit www.sunshinekids.org.