Tour De Donut Returns to Staunton July 11

By MELISSA LYNN

Enquirer~Democrat Reporter

Staunton will once again host its most unusual cycling event when the Tour de Donut returns Saturday, July 11, starting at Staunton City Park. Organizers describe the race as a lighthearted spoof of the professional cycling race, Tour de France. The event has been held since 1988 and typically draws about 1,200 participants.

Tour De Donut combines bicycling and donuts in a 34-mile timed race along rural Macoupin County roads, which include rolling terrain with some moderate hills toward the end of the route. Riders make one donut stop in Mt. Olive and one in Eagarville, where they can eat donuts to earn time credits that are subtracted from their overall race time.

A shorter 12-mile “donut hole” route is also available. This one is not timed and includes one donut stop.

The race begins at 9 a.m., with rider check-in beginning at 7 a.m.

Prizes include medals awarded in multiple age divisions, cash prizes for most donuts consumed, a drawing giving away bicycles, and more. A “Golden Helmet” is also awarded to the participant who travels the greatest distance to attend.

Registration is required in advance, with a deadline of noon Friday, July 10. Helmets are required for all riders, and participants must be at least 13 years old to ride without an adult.

The race begins and ends at Staunton City Park. More information, including registration details and route maps, is available online through the event’s official website.