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On Monday afternoon, Bronx Borough president Ruben Diaz joined forces with Transportation Alternatives, Montefiore Medical Center, St. Barnabas Hospital and the Bronx Lebanon Medical Center to officially let the world know that the 18th annual Tour de Bronx — the region’s largest free cycling event — will be happening and it will be a good thing for a borough that was recently named the most unhealthy county in the state.

This year’s Tour will be taking place on Sunday, Oct.14.

Diaz expressed his excitement about the event and said he would be participating.

“It is a wonderful event, where I get to join my fellow Bronxites and thousands of out-of-town visitors for a bike ride to tour our wonderful borough,” said during a press conference at Montefiore. “Riding a bike around the Bronx is the healthiest way to rediscover our beautiful borough and all it has to offer in a new way.”

Dr. Peter Selwyn, MD, chairman of family and social medicine at Monterfiore, said preventing diseases is a serious matter and the best way to do so is to live a healthy lifestyle and doing things like cycling around the Bronx.

Selwyn’s boss echoed that sentiment.

“The Tour de Bronx is a perfect way to promote health and wellness and to discover all that the Bronx has to offer,” said Dr. Steven M. Safyer, MD, president and CEO of Montefiore Medical Center. “This annual event demonstrates Montefiore’s commitment to partner with organizations in the Bronx to strengthen our communities and enhance well-being.”

It’s also a win for bicycling enthusiasts.

The Tour demonstrates that bicycling is “truly a five-borough phenomenon,” said Paul Steely White, executive director of Transportation Alternatives. “This family-friendly event will showcase the recreational side of an increasingly common transportation choice for New Yorkers and offer an unparalleled experience of the diverse and historic neighborhood of the Bronx.”

The Metro North Railroad will be waiving their bicycle permit requirements and limits on the day of the event in order to allow group riders to join.

Coca Cola will be distributing Dasani water, Powerade sports drinks and Fuze throughout the event to keep riders hydrated. Domino’s will provide pizza once the tour is done. A 25-mile and 40-mile course is offered throughout the Bronx from which participants are free to choose.

To participate, register online at www.tourdebronx.org.

Editor’s note: A version of this story appears in the Oct. 4-17 print edition of the Norwood News.

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