TiVo the Ravens game this Sunday and gear up for north central Baltimore’s biggest bike tour – Tour de Greater Homewood! The tour will honor fallen cyclist John R. "Jack" Yates, who died in a hit-and-run accident at Maryland and Lafayette Avenues in August.
The ride will begin at 1:00 p.m. at University of Baltimore’s Gordon Plaza (Maryland and Mt. Royal Avenues) on Sunday, November 8th. A suggested donation of $10 for ride participants will benefit GHCC’s youth programs, an area Jack was particularly passionate about.
The Baltimore cycling community, including the North Baltimore Bike Brigade, Velocipede Bike Project, One Less Car, Baltimore Spokes, Bike Baltimore, and more, are teaming up to drive participants to the event and make it a success.
“Jack’s death in a cycling accident [was] a tragic loss for all citizens of Baltimore,” said Randy Knepper, former GHCC Board president. Jack first joined GHCC’s Board of Directors in March 2004, where he served as Secretary. Jack also worked as an Educational Consultant at the Abell Foundation, and later served as a mentor for Lake Clifton High School’s Educational Opportunities Program (EOP), where he counseled graduates of the Baraka School (featured in the critically acclaimed Boys of Baraka). During his tenure from 2001-2008, Jack helped nearly all 89 Baraka alumni graduate from high school.
This year's Tour de Greater Homewood will consist of a 12-15 mile ride winding through Greater Homewood featuring a leisurely ride through tree-lined avenues, main streets, the Jones Falls Trail, and more. A shorter, family-oriented five-miler through central Baltimore will suit cycling beginners and those looking for an easier ride. Click here for a sneak preview of the long route!
Want to get involved? Click here to visit the event page on Facebook!
