With the help of the Lone Star Cyclists of Grand Prairie, the 24th Annual Tour d’Italia was a success. The cyclists started arriving on Friday night to register for the bike rally held every third Saturday in June. Some of the riders camped on the lawn in front of the Italy High School and in the parking lot, as well. As Saturday morning arrived, there was no parking left except along city streets and that was a difficult feat.

According to Registration Coordinator, Bobbie Carol, over 1300 riders took to Highway 34 and surrounding towns. “They began on Main Street at the donut shop,” Carol said. “This is one of our largest attended years. The weather is cooperating. The largest number of cyclists was several years ago with over 1400. The numbers build every year.” Bobbie also mentioned that the members really enjoy this ride. The ride coordinators always get good reviews. “Twenty percent of this year’s riders are brand new to this rally,” Bobbie said. “They have come from Houston, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas to ride in Italy, Texas.”

Each year starts with a spaghetti supper on Friday night. Saturday morning begins early with pancakes. After the ride, the coaches of IHS always cook burgers, hot dogs and barbecue, noting this profit goes to Italy Athletics. The riders’ registration, however, help fund Italy High School scholarships, MADD, Bikes for Tikes, North Texas Food Bank and a women’s shelter in Grand Prairie, as well as other charities.

The bike rally has routes of approximately 12, 30, 40, 50 and 63 miles with rest stops in the areas of Dresden, Blooming Grove, Frost and Navarro Mills. “Each rest stop has cookies, water and fresh fruit. Of course, the best treat for everyone are the ice cold plums,” Carol said with a smile. “They are the biggest draw.”