Concerns over number of riders, small shops, lead to cancellation
By Heather Ruenz
Organizers have canceled the annual Roun’da Manure Bicycle Tour event, slated for the middle of this month, over concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic.
The event, a one-day bicycle tour through farmlands and towns that begins in the Village of Sharon, was scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15.
Historic Downtown Sharon and the Roun’da Manure Bicycle Tour Committee said the decision was a difficult one to make.
“This decision did not come easy for us. We, like many of you, are looking to get back to some sort of normal. However, with the amount of riders that we are anticipating and the small ice cream stop locations, we are no longer able to adequately provide a safe experience for everyone,” organizers stated.
The tour includes a choice of different marked routes, each with color coded arrows and signage for easier navigation.
Before the start of the ride, each rider receives coupons for ice cream or other snack treats at locally famous ice cream shops.
Offering four routes ranging from 17 to 66 miles, the Roun’da Manure follows lightly traveled paved roads that are fully marked and suitable for road bikes. The four loops are referred to as Darien, Fontana, Poplar Grove and Shopiere, based on the areas they take riders through.
The day begins with a free all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast for bike riders.
A free pig roast lunch is offered afterwards for participants. During that time following the ride, many participants take the opportunity to swap bike tales with fellow cycling enthusiasts.
The committee is in the process of issuing refunds for riders who had already signed up and paid the registration.
“We ask that you keep us in mind for next year’s event, Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021. We will have the same four routes, which will offer some scenic country sites and a total of over 100 miles for those that choose to do all four routes,” organizers said.
For more information about the bicycle tour visit roundamanurebicycletour.com.
The Roun’da Manure is a major fundraiser for Historic Downtown Sharon, a non-profit historical society that strives to bring new people to the community and celebrate the long history of Sharon. The group sponsors three major events in the village: Model A Day in June; Roun’da Manure Bicycle Tour in August; and Victorian Christmas in December.
For more information visit historicdowntownsharon.com.
