Cyclists to Pedal From Key Largo to Key West in ‘Tour de Keys’ Fundraiser

Bicyclists are to navigate the Florida Keys island chain during 100-mile and 50-mile fundraising rides Saturday, Oct. 5, traversing dozens of bridges above blue water along scenic Florida Keys Overseas Highway and Heritage Trail routes.

Dubbed the ReMARCable Tour de Keys, the cycling trek benefits two Keys nonprofits: the Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens, providing life services for developmentally and intellectually disabled Keys adults; and A.H. Monroe, providing health and housing services to underserved individuals in the island chain.

Cyclists can participate in a full 100-mile “century” ride from Key Largo to Key West, or a 50-mile ride from Marathon to Key West. Organizers estimated the event, now in its ninth year, will attract 150 or more solo and team participants.

“This ride isn’t just about the miles; it’s about making a difference,” said coordinator Becki Balcer. “All funds raised stay in the Keys’ Monroe County to help support our two nonprofits.”

Cyclists can pick up their Tour de Keys packets at 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at Skippers Dockside, 528 Caribbean Drive, mile marker 100, in Key Largo. A late pickup is planned for early morning Saturday, Oct. 5, at the event’s start points.

Riders in the 100-mile challenge are to depart shortly after 7 a.m. Saturday from the Holiday Inn Key Largo, 99701 Overseas Highway, and begin pedaling through the Keys. Those choosing the 50-mile journey are to depart at approximately 10:30 a.m. from Marathon’s Royal Furniture, 6001 Overseas Highway in the Middle Keys.

The route takes participants across landmarks including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, connecting Marathon to the Lower Keys, on their way to the continental United States’s southernmost city of Key West. Rest stops and hydration stations are to be located throughout the course.  

A finish line party is slated for 3 p.m. at Key West’s Opal Key Resort & Marina, 245 Front St., with recognition of the top individual fundraiser and top fundraising team at 4:45 p.m. 

The per-rider registration fee is $85 through Sept. 22, $95 from Sept. 23 through Oct. 4, and $105 on the event day. In addition to the fee, each rider is asked to raise at least $100 in donations for the two nonprofits’ missions.

Event information: tourdekeys.com

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