News

TDA grant helps attract out-of-state Tour d'Apple riders

By Lightning Reports, Published: August 21, 2023

A $1,300 grant from the Henderson County Tourism Development Authority has helped Four Seasons Rotary Club’s effort to attract out-of-state cyclists for the 11th annual Tour d’Apple bike ride, held annually on Labor Day.

With two weeks before the event at Blue Ridge Community College, riders from eight states and Washington, D.C., have already registered to pedal one of the Tour’s four routes around Henderson County. 

“We are grateful to the Tourism Authority for helping us reach out-of-town cyclists through our social media,” said Michele Garashi-Ellick, President of Four Seasons Rotary Club. The club’s post-event surveys each year have shown that most out-of-state cyclists spend at least one overnight locally and dine at local restaurants during their visit. 

Dick Miley, co-director of the Tour and a member of Four Seasons Rotary, said he loves the comments he receives from cyclists each year complimenting the joy and beauty of cycling through Henderson County’s apple orchards and mountain roads.  “We hope our event will entice out-of-town cyclists to come for the NC Apple Festival, but then come back again for a longer stay in our beautiful area,” Miley said.

Cyclists can still register through RaceRoster or at the race website. Tour routes, ranging from 25 to 100 miles, have fully stocked rest stops manned by volunteers. Following the ride, cyclists will enjoy a full Mexican lunch and live music by Bear Creek String Bandits.