On June 4, over 490 bike riders took to the roads of Talbot County and raised $13,000 for three charities and ride-organizer Talbot Thrive.

Participants took off from the Easton Firehall early in the morning, following one of three routes of 30, 40 or 62.5 miles. The longer distances featured a ferry crossing from Oxford to Bellevue as part of the route. Rest stops were staffed by volunteers whose charities benefitted from the ride – including the YMCA of the Chesapeake, Mariah’s Mission and Carepacks of Talbot County. Each charity will receive $3,000 with $4,000 going towards organizer Talbot Thrive to launch their programming initiatives in Talbot County.

“Mariah’s Mission is overwhelmed by the generous donation from Tour de Talbot,” said Valerie Albee, Mariah’s Mission Executive Director. “Participating in the event brought recognition to our Wheels for Change program which provides healthy and safe transportation to those in need.These funds will enable us to reach additional individuals by donating new or gently used bicycles, helmets and locks. The independence of having a way to get to jobs, meetings, appointments brings a sense of joy and pride to each rider.”

A team from the YMCA of the Chesapeake provided much needed rest and snacks throughout the day at the Oxford Ferry. “Thanks to Tour de Talbot for showcasing the beauty of Talbot County,” said the YMCA Associate Executive Director Wendy Palmer. “The day was perfect and the ride shared so much of who we are. Our rich history, including the Oxford Bellevue Ferry, the beautiful scenic route, the welcoming team of organizers, the supportive cheers from the rest stop crews, and the many community partners that gathered for the post ride Expo. We thank Tour de Talbot for sharing all of the beauty of our county and for your generous gift to the Eaton Family YMCA. We will continue to share the love for our community with your gift.”

Several prominent local businesses also came on board as sponsors including: Gold Sponsors ($2500 or more) Out of the Fire, Pursoma, Sprout Cafe; Silver Sponsors ($1,000 or more) Chuck Mangold, Jr. Realtor at Benson and Mangold and the Dock Street Foundation; Bronze Sponsors ($500 or more) Carrion Electric, Shore United Bank and Willow Construction and Business Sponsors Friel Lumber, Easton Cycle and Sport, Maryland DOT and Pickle Juice.

Building on the success of its second year, Tour de Talbot hopes to continue to host the event in future years, supporting local non-profits and building awareness of safe cycling throughout Talbot County and the Eastern Shore.