Lookin’ good
Day of the Tread events feature old favorites, a new addition and costumes
From the free KidsK bike ride to its list of nonprofit beneficiaries, the Day of the Tread cycling event is about children and families.
This year’s event is set for Oct. 27 and includes 26-, 50-, 64- and 100-mile routes; tandem categories are available for those routes.
For more event information and registration, go to dayofthetread.com.
Tom Parker, who has been event director for Day of the Tread for the past two years, said this year’s event will bring back favorite categories, as well as add a new one — a ride that includes a return trip on the Rail Runner.
“We think this will be a great family ride. … Kids will get to ride the train, and the route is protected,” he said.
The ride is limited to the first 120 riders who register and is a flat ride along the Bosque Trail from Civic Plaza to the Rail Runner Station at Los Ranchos/Journal Center. Riders will then take the New Mexico Rail Runner (train leaves at 11:41) to the Downtown Albuquerque Station. They will then be escorted to Civic Plaza by bike concierges and will finish at Civic Plaza.
“We want to make this THE event for fall,” Parker said. “And we want to help local nonprofits that serve children.”
Parker said the event has grown every year over the past four years. Last year, participants came from 26 states and, over the past 12 years, more than 20,000 cyclists have taken part in the annual fundraising event. Day of the Tread is known for its fun Day of the Dead-inspired costumes that are seen on the roads surrounding Albuquerque one day every year.
The Day of the Tread will also feature a health and fitness expo that serves as packet pickup from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 26 in the Albuquerque Convention Center.
The other new feature is Oktoberfest at City Center. Registered riders will get free admission to the event; others will pay $10. The event includes games, craft beer and German music and food.
All proceeds benefit Pegasus Legal Services for Children and Zia Freewheelers Adaptive Cycling, among others. Info on the charities involved and more info about the event is available at dayofthetread.com.