Cycle 66: Historic Route Ride

The inaugural Cycle 66 will be held November 7th, 2021. Cycle 66 is an urban and rural bicycling tour along Route 66. The ride offers three routes: 10, 33 and 66-miles each beginning and ending in downtown Edmond. The annual, all levels cycling tour will raise funds to promote better health as well as honor the legacy of the Route 66 highway. The 2021 ride will commemorate the historic highway’s 95th anniversary; Route 66 was established on November 11th, 1926.

New Take on a Historic Route

Cycle 66 will bring the nostalgia of Route 66 into a new century. The bicycle tour will ride the momentum of a growing interest in cycling and highlight the vibrant communities and businesses along the Mother Road. One of Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell’s primary platforms was an intention to place a renewed focus on Route 66. The ride capitalizes on that effort.

Founder of the ride, Representative Mike Osburn says, “We brought this idea to several community leaders and cycling enthusiasts. We received lots of positive feedback and great ideas were brought to the table. This group really jumped in to bring the event to life. It’s a great story of collaboration and civic pride.”

Cycle 66 was set in motion through a partnership with the City of Edmond, the State of Oklahoma, Visit Edmond and Route 66 stakeholders. Mayor Darrell Davis says, “Cycle 66 is a perfect fit for Edmond. Our history and future are strongly connected to Route 66. We are happy to host this ride for years to come.”

Cycling for a Cause

OU Health Edmond Medical Center will champion the ride with $66,000 in seed money. President Lisa Wilson says, “The Medical Center has witnessed firsthand the phenomenal growth of Edmond over the past five decades. We want to celebrate and recognize the impact of Route 66 on our community.”

A portion of proceeds from the ride will be dedicated to the Oklahoma Route 66 Association and the Autumn Life Behavioral Health Center, a geriatric psychiatry inpatient program. Cycle 66 is a board governed nonprofit. The health charity beneficiary will change, but the Route 66 Association will remain a recipient each year.

Get your Kicks

Routes will be revealed at the Get Your Kicks Party on Saturday, May 15th from 6-9pm at the Edmond Railyard. Registration will open and Cycle 66 gear will be unveiled and available for purchase.1884 at the Railyard will offer Route 66 inspired cocktails. Matt Stansberry & The Romance will provide live rock and soul music. Lissa Wohtlman will lead a kick off training ride beginning at the Littler Lawn, departing the morning of May 15th at 8am. Both the party and ride are open to the public.
Follow along on social media and find more information as well as volunteer and sponsorship opportunities at www.cycle66ok.com.