With less than a month to go, it’s time for bike riders to sign up for the annual Saugerties Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Bike Tour of Saugerties, set for Sunday, May 20.
Now in its second year, it began as a way to not only bring the community and families together, but also as a way to raise money for the Ladies Auxiliary and to help fund their many activities.
Heidi Brandt, a member of the Ladies Auxiliary, explained that money raised goes towards helping sponsor the annual July 4th parade, and helps purchase fire equipment for the fire department.
Money raised from the event also allows the Ladies Auxiliary to help take care of firefighters when they are out at a fire scene. During the dead of winter, when firefighters are battling a blaze, the auxiliary will bring out hot drinks and food to keep the firefighters going.
They are also there to help cool down firefighters when they are out during the heat of summer fighting a fire.
Two tours are held, one a fun five-mile ride, and the other a more trying 25-mile tour of Saugerties.
“The Bike Tour is a way for the public to participate in a family-friendly or challenging scenic bicycling activity in and around the historic village of Saugerties,” Brandt explained. “And hopefully we will bring new visitors to our area who will love it as much as we do.”
Early entry free prior to May 1 is $15. After May 1, the fee is $20. There is a family rate of $50 for the 5-mile ride only.
Registration for the bike tours begins at the firehouse on Partition Street at 8:30 a.m. The 25-mile tour of Saugerties takes off at 9:30 a.m., and the 5-mile family fun ride begins at 11 a.m. Lunch is served at 12:30 p.m. at the firehouse.
There are also raffles, prizes, and giveaways throughout the day.
For more information about the tour or to pre-register, call Brandt at 845-389-1448 or email heidi.brandt1@gmail.com.
Join the family! 
