The 24th Annual Cross Timbers Classic benefitting the Northwest Metroport Chamber of Commerce and Flower Mound Rotary charities and civic service projects invites you to join their ride on May 21, 2011 held at the Texas Motor Speedway 3545 Lone Star Circle, Fort Worth, TX
We were lucky enough to be granted an interview with Cristina Weeks of The Cross Timbers Classic to ask some questions about their upcoming ride.
Why Join the “Cross Timbers Classic”?
The Cross Timbers Classic is known for having friendly volunteers and fun activities. We’ll have free t-shirts and goodie bags. A warm-up instructor will be on hand before the race. The first lap of the route is on the Texas Motor Speedway race track (pretty cool). Then there are a variety of routes to choose that ride through some quaint towns and beautiful countryside. After the race, we’ll have free BBQ, beer and a band in the TMS Garages. Plus, a masseuse will be on hand, compliments of Hidden Spa.
How long has the event been around and how did it start?
This is the 24th year for the race. It was started by the Flower Mound Rotary as a fundraiser for charities they support. This year, the Northwest Metroport Chamber of Commerce has joined the effort. The race goes through many of the cities that make up the chamber, including Haslet, Justin, Northlake, Roanoke, Trophy Club and Westlake. (Did you know that Roanoke is known as the “Unique Dining Capital” and Westlake was recently named the nation’s most affluent community by Forbes?)
What was the motivation behind starting the tour and who benefits from it?
Texas is a great place for cycling. It is a huge sport. Plus cyclists are great people! What would be more fun than to host a ride? The event benefits non-profit organizations supported by the Flower Mound Rotary and the Northwest Metroport Chamber.
How have they been able to utilize the funds in the past?
In the past, the Flower Mound Rotary has divided proceeds in order to support a variety of non-profit organizations, including the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, American Red Cross, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, Polio Plus, Wheelchair Foundation, YMCA to name a few.
Logistically, can you give us an idea how many volunteers, finances, and planning it takes to put on this event?
We have more than 100 volunteers prepped for the event. There has been a tremendous amount of planning completed by 12 committees. Everything from poster distribution to safety & security to SAG wagons to registration to hospitality and more! The community support has been fantastic with some wonderful sponsors. This year, we’re hitting record numbers of registration sign-ups as well.
What was the most rewarding experience throughout the years hosting this event?
Really, it’s the people. After months of planning, it’s so rewarding to have cyclists say they enjoyed the event and will be back next year.
How many riders do you assist during the average race?
A lot depends on the weather. We’ve enjoyed anywhere from 600 to 1,500 riders in previous years.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
Spread the word about the race! We have limited funds for promotion, so a lot of communication is by word of mouth. Tell your friends and fellow cyclists. They can follow us at www.Facebook.com/CrossTimbersClassic.
What is your role in this race and to the success of it?
Every year the race is coordinated by volunteers. This year the Northwest Metroport Chamber has joined with the Flower Mound Rotary to really learn the ropes. In future years, the Chamber will host the event entirely. So, right now, we’re jumping in with both feet to learn the ropes and maintain the same high level of quality. We’re really glad the Flower Mound Rotary is still with us this year, so nothing falls through the cracks. We’re working to document every activity/task and create a strategy to make the Cross Timbers Classic one of the best in North Texas.
Do you ride and if yes, what kind of bicycle do you ride and what is your favorite route in your area?
Carol Jones, our Chamber President, rides. She says, “My favorite ride is in my community of Saginaw, TX in the early morning. I ride anywhere from 13 to 15 miles depending on how much time I have. The bike I ride is a Dawes.”
Which are your top 3 favorite MUST DO rides in Texas (besides your own)?
Carol says, “Around Saginaw, Hotter than Hell in Wichita Falls and of course I have to list Cross Timbers Classic.”
Additional stuff you would like the folks to know about this year’s ride?
Not only will the race be enjoyable and have fun activities, our goal is to be safe for the cyclists. We have six, shiny new Chevrolet Silverados for SAG wagons, medical personnel, First Aid stations at each rest stop and the help of our local police. The event will be fun and safe for all. Plus, with a variety of routes from 100 miles to the Family Classic, everyone can choose the ride that’s best for them.
Thanks Cristina Weeks for this quick interview and we hope to catch everyone at the ride!
Click here to view the event details of the 24th Annual Cross Timbers Classic