New York — Tens of thousands of cyclists from around the world took to the streets of New York City on Sunday for the Five Borough Bike Tour.
In total, 32,000 cyclists embarked on a 40-mile ride that began in lower Manhattan, headed to the Bronx, crossed over to Queens and Brooklyn, and ended in Staten Island.
“It’s fantastic. The energy, the people, it’s a really cool community,” said Michael Sparling, of Holbrook.
Freshmen, seniors, experienced riders, and novices were sightseeing together.
“I like the idea of no cars, because it’s usually a little scary to ride in the streets here,” said Elisha Stavropoulos, a Manhattan resident.
“Today is the 5-Boro Bike Tour”
There is a major citywide lockdown between 7am and 7pm. Motorists are strongly advised to use mass transit or look for alternative routes.
Click the QR icon to access the “NYC Bike Smart” guide for resources, tips, and maps pic.twitter.com/hOzAye2g9w
New York Transportation Office (NYPDTransport) May 7, 2023
“I love it. I heard about it, and said NYC is the place to go and try it out. Why not? So I’m coming from Toronto, Canada,” said Amit Chatturaj.
The event also supports Bike New York’s philanthropic work.
“We provide free education to over 30,000 New Yorkers. We teach them how to ride, how to ride safely. We also train former incarcerated New Yorkers to be bike mechanics, and then Citi Bike hires them,” Bike New York president Ken Podzida said.
This year marked the 45th year of the Five Boro Bike Tour. Adel Sawana was the millionth knight.
“I think it’s a really great way to see New York in a bigger space,” said another contestant, “and I’ve never been to Staten Island, so it will be the first of many.”
There is no other city tour like this, and there is no other day when the streets are empty of cars.
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