FAIR HAVEN – The 2012 Tour de Fair Haven is coming and residents are being asked to take part in the fun by participating on race day, Sunday, Aug. 12, in the best house decorations and best tailgate competitions.
The bike race, presented by The Foundation of Fair Haven, USA Cycling Federation (USCF) affiliate Cycles 54 and ForeFront, Inc., in partnership with the Borough of Fair Haven, is an exciting and competitive event for cycling enthusiasts.
Tour de Fair Haven is expected to draw 400-plus cyclists. The event includes festive activities for kids of all ages and their families. Six races will follow the 3.1 enclosed course, which begins at the Fair Haven Fire Department on River Road in the center of town.
The first race begins at 7 a.m., a kids race is scheduled for noon and will be followed by the Pro Men’s Race, the main event of the day.
Free cowbells to cheer on the racers are available, while they last, and are being donated by Coastal Decor.
New this year, prizes will be awarded for best house decorations along the race route and for best tailgate. Local residents are encouraged to throw a party on their lawn and tailgaters are welcome to congregate at the youth center on Third Street.
This year’s Tour de Fair Haven ranks among one of the East Coast’s best races in a downtown setting. Racers will compete for $10,000 in prize money, and the event is expected to draw some of the best cyclists in the region.
“What has become ‘New Jersey’s Shore Toughest Race’ for the riders has become one of the most entertaining sporting events for spectators,” said Fair Haven Councilwoman Susan Sorensen, who is also a member of the Foundation for Fair Haven.
“This event benefits the Fair Haven Centennial Celebration which is hosting a year-long calendar of special events to mark the 100-year milestone of Fair Haven’s incorporation, and will also help fund bike safety programs for local residents.”
Sponsors include Saker ShopRites, ForeFront Inc. and Circle BMW.
Registration deadline is Aug. 9. For registration, directions and additional information, visit www.tourdefairhaven.com.
