Hernando County to Host Fourth Annual Brooksville Cycle Classic

The Hernando County Tourism Bureau is pleased to sponsor the fourth Annual Brooksville Bicycling Classic, as it returns to Hernando County, October 19 and 20, 2013.

One of the state’s premier bicycle races, the Brooksville Cycle Classic will feature a full day of racing, drawing the best riders from all over Florida. The day begins with a fun ride on the Good Neighbor Trail, open to all ages, individual competitive races begin at 9:30am and ends with a climatic professional race at 4:30pm. The races consist of an array of twists and turns along the brick streets of historic downtown Brooksville, the six corner course winds through the historic buildings, homes and charming shops, showcasing the city’s rich history. The downtown area will be the site for the race and a health festival featuring vendors and sponsors promoting the rewards of a healthy lifestyle. Also happening in downtown is the Annual Art and Market Walk, providing a full day of entertainment in the city. Sunday, October 20 the Ice Cream Hill Road Race, open to all will treat riders to Hernando County’s scenic and challenging terrain over a hilly course that will present a fun and exciting challenge for all biking enthusiast. The sprint finish comes at the end of a nice quick, straight descent for the last kilometer, allowing all riders the opportunity to compete for first place honors.

Early registration is open until 4:18 pm on October 12, 2013, with registration discounts; registration closes at 10:00 am on October 17, 2013. For more information or to sign up online please visit www.floridacycling.com.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Pediatric Cancer Foundation and Neff Lake ARC facility. This year’s event promises to bring people from all over Florida to Hernando. Tammy Heon, Tourism Development Coordinator for Hernando County expressed her enthusiasm for the annual event. “The races is just the sort of event we want to see in Hernando County; the economic impact of thousands of people visiting the area for the race will be extremely positive. Additionally, the publicity and awareness of Hernando County as a premier area for cycling enthusiasts is invaluable.”

Heon also noted the Tourism Bureau encourages spectators and participants alike to return for a repeat visit on the Nature Coast. “Hernando County comes alive with festivals, art, music, and historical events during the fall and winter months. It’s a great time to experience the unique offerings of the Nature Coast.”

The Hernando County Tourism Bureau’s mission is to identify, create, support and enhance activities, consistent with community assets that increase visitation and provide local economic impact. To meet that mission, the Tourism Bureau markets the County as a leisure recreation destination, utilizing print, Internet and social media, as well as promotional activities including special events, trade shows and FAM (does everyone know what a FAM tour is?) Tours. Funds for the Tourism Bureau are derived from “bed tax” revenue, a three-percent surcharge on all transient accommodations (hotels, motels, bed & breakfast inns, campgrounds and other lodging leased for six months or less) within Hernando County. The day-to-day activities of the Tourism Bureau are managed by the Bureau’s staff with oversight by the Hernando County Tourist Development Council (TDC), a volunteer committee appointed by the County Commission. For more information or to partner with the Tourism Bureau, contact the Bureau at  800-601-4580 or online at www.naturallyhernando.org.