By Alicia Welsh

When we think of a premier cycling event that takes place every July, our minds probably go straight to the Tour de France and don’t automatically think of the rolling countryside in our very own Western Pennsylvania. Well, each July cyclists from around the world come to the tranquil Pennsylvania countryside to compete in the 4 day racing event. The Tour de Toona started 25 years ago as a one day race aimed at drawing people to downtown Altoona. The inaugural race witnessed less than 100 participants, but has since grown over the past 20 years to over 8000 cyclists, sponsors, volunteers and spectators for a five day event. Not only is the Tour de Toona the largest pro-am cycling event in North America, it is also considered one of the premier events on the National Racing calendar. Over the years, Tour de Toona has seen its fair share of racing greats such as Lance Armstrong, Tom Danielson, Scott Moninger and Genevieve Jeanson. 

After two successful decades, the Tour de Toona was in jeopardy of disappearing all together due to lack of sponsorship and funding. In 2008, organizers were forced to reduce the race to a one-day criterium and cancelled the 2009 race due to lack of funding, however, luckily for racing fans, race organizers have secured funding for a 4 day event this year. The Tour de Toona is such a unique event for the region and brings an international crowd that other festivals might not attract, therefore, continuing this ever growing tradition is a necessity to promoting our region as a desirable region for tourists, families and businesses. 

  This year the Tour de Toona will start on Wednesday July 6 with a 3 mile Sunset Time Trial and culminates on Sunday July 10 with the Altoona Downtown Criterium, a 30 mile/30 lap tour of downtown Altoona. The race not only showcases downtown Altoona, but also brings the race to surrounding towns and attractions such as Blue Knob Resort, Richland Township, Hollidaysburg and the rich farmland that covers most of the region. One thing that continues to attract more racers, is the prize purse which amounts to $110,000 and will be split evenly between the male and female winners. Not only are the prizes equal for men and women, but the women cyclists race equal distance as their male counterparts. No other stage race in the world offers this opportunity to women. 

  Race week in Altoona offers several activities for spectators including free ice cream, live music, food and drinks and much more! So if you’re looking for something different to do this weekend, check out the Tour de Toona and all that Altoona has to offer.