Cycling for Fun and Furry Friends

Joy Wegner, Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter and Rescues

Why would residents of SaddleBrooke be excited about the El Tour de Tucson cycling event coming up on Nov. 20?

Because it’s a fun, fantastic cycling event, and you can cycle to raise funds for Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter and Rescues!

El Tour de Tucson is an annual event, featuring thousands of cyclists of all ages and abilities. You can choose to ride a 100-mile, 57-mile, or 28-mile route. There is also a Fun Ride for those who prefer a 10-, 5-, or 1-mile ride. This year’s event will be held on Nov. 20 in and around Tucson. The cycling routes feature the beautiful landscapes of Tucson and Southern Arizona, all while riding in the cool winter air of Tucson. Route profiles range from flat to rolling and moderately hilly paths. Actual route maps can be viewed on the event’s website at www.eltourdetucson.org.

Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter and Rescues is proud to be one of the non-profit organizations that benefits from this event. Mera Laureys, a resident of SaddleBrooke, founded Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter and Rescues in 2020 to help fund veterinary supplies and care for the well-being of dogs and cats at the shelter, with fosters, and with animal rescue groups. Funds raised so far have paid for medical and dental veterinary equipment not funded by the county, medical costs and rehabilitation for injured animals, as well as supplies for the safety and well-being of animals at the Pinal County Shelter. Details about this organization are at friendsofpinal.org.

So, sign up to ride in the El Tour de Tucson at www.eltourdetucson.org. Select the “Register” button in the upper right corner, and be sure to sign up as a rider on the Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter and Rescues team. Pledge funds from you and your supporters to Friends of Pinal County Animal Shelter and Rescues. It will be a fun time and provide support for the shelter’s dogs and cats in Pinal County!