More than 30,000 bicyclists from all around the world mounted their bikes to roll through the five boroughs of New York City. They started in Manhattan early Sunday morning and will finished on Staten Island.

Cyclist Max Maurice says this was a great opportunity to take a tour of the city. 

“It’s an opportunity to ride through the boroughs on a nice sunny, brisk day,” says Maurice. 

Cycling through 42 miles of city streets and bridges is no small feat. Maurice stopped to wait for a friend. 

“He’s a little behind,” says Maurice. “I’m just waiting for him. This is a little much for him.” 

Course marshals from TriLatino Triathlon Club were on hand to help riders get through the race. 

“Cheer for them, encourage them, let them know about little things coming up like water stations,” says course marshal Jerusha Ramos. 

The bike tour is a charitable ride that helps fund free bike education programs. During the pandemic, the program went virtual reaching more than 30,000 kids and adults.   

The tour started in 1977 as a five-borough challenge with just 250 participants starting and ending in Queens. The race was to be a one-time event. It became tradition after then Mayor Ed Koch liked the idea of a city-wide bike tour. The number of participants more than doubled the following year. 

If you are planning to head out for the day, allow yourself some extra time. There are plenty of road closures throughout the city.