The first Tour de Donut was started in 1989 by a group of Southwestern Illinois cyclists who thought a race spoofing the Tour de France would be a natural. Members of the now defunct Mid-America Bicycle Club were discussing ideas for a unique ride, and the Tour de Donut was born. The Mid-America Bicycle Club folded in 1998 and former members sought a new sponsor. Since then, St. Louis’ Boeing Employees Bicycle Club has sponsored the event. The race is also sponsored by the Staunton Chamber of Commerce.
The first race started with approximately 25 riders. The race has grown throughout the years, however, and approximately 1000 cyclists now participate in the race. Currently, there are five locations participating in the Tour de Donut. The Rotary Club of American Fork is proud to be one of the five.
The Rotary Club of American Fork, Utah decided to adopt the Tour de Donut as a unique fundraising idea in 2008 to fund both local and international projects. Thanks to Layne and Kim Garrett for bringing this to our attention. The first year we had over 200 riders. The second year we were around 320 total riders. The third year we had over 480 Registered Riders!
Funds have been raised for various causes including: Amber Alert ID Project – Utah, Kona Bike Town Africa, Lance Armstrong – LiveSTRONG Foundation, Rotary International’s Polio Plus Campaign and More!
The 2011 Utah Tour de Donut will be raising funds for: The Huntsman Cancer Center at the American Fork Hospital, Kona Bike Town Africa, and local Rotary Club of American Fork Projects.
