Junior Tour de Naperville Set for July 9 at Commissioners Park

The fourth annual Junior Tour de Naperville, presented by Russell Martin, is coming to Commissioners Park on Saturday, July 9, 2016. Hosted by the Naperville Park District, the event gives kids ages 3-10 the opportunity to ride their bicycles, big wheels or tricycles around the 1.2-mile trail, cheered on by family and friends.

The event began in 2013 to commemorate the 100th edition of the Tour de France.

"This event gives kids a chance to ride their bikes at their own pace, as well as enjoying the challenge of riding on the 1.2-mile trail at Commissioners Park," said Program Manager Fred Gusel.

There will be separate starts for younger and older participants: the 3-5-year-olds will start at 9:00 a.m. followed by the 6-10 year-olds at 9:30 a.m. The older kids will be challenged to go around the course as many times as they can. Each participating child must register for the event and will receive a yellow T-Shirt.

Participants will have three "support and gear" (SAG) stops, with drinks and snacks. Parents are welcome to encourage them from the sidelines or to accompany them around the course.

Additionally, Park Police officers will be on hand to "cite" safe bicycling practices with a "ticket" for a free ice cream cone at the Riverwalk Café. The Naperville Park District is collaborating with the City of Naperville's Police Department to promote safe bicycling this summer by handing out tickets for safe bicycling habits throughout the community.

The 2016 event sponsors include Russell Martin and Eye Level Enrichment Center.

Registration for the Junior Tour de Naperville is in progress. To register for the event, please visit www.napervilleparks.org. Commissioners Park is located at 3704 111th St.