# The Boyd Family’s Biking Journey

• Initial Interest: Derrick Boyd’s foray into bicycle road races sparked a family-wide interest in cycling. * Health Benefits: The Boyds have experienced significant health improvements from regular biking. * Community Involvement: The family has become an integral part of the local biking community.
  

  The Return of Tour de Charleston

  The Charleston Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Tour de Charleston bicycle races marked a significant return to the city’s cycling community. With 157 cyclists from five states participating, the event showcased the growing popularity and enthusiasm for the sport. ### A Diverse Group of Cyclists The participants hailed from various backgrounds, representing a wide range of ages, skill levels, and experiences.

  “It’s a great way to meet new people and make friends.” The event, which is part of the Charleston Bicycle Club’s annual calendar, is a celebration of cycling culture in the city. It features a variety of races for different age groups and skill levels, including a 5K, a 10K, and a 20K. The races are held on a scenic route through downtown Charleston, passing by historic landmarks such as the Battery and the Waterfront Park.

  Finley said she practiced for the tour by riding her bicycle in her neighborhood and on the network of paved walkways at Sister City Park and the adjacent Linder Sports Complex in Charleston, adding that cycling is her favorite type of exercise. “It just gives you something to do while you are also exercising,” Finley said. Her mother, Stephanie, added that Finley is thinking about giving the tour’s 12.5-mile race a try next year. Peterlich said she was thankful that the Tour de Charleston was on track to get its races and other activities, including a bounce house and Bubba’s Burgers concessions, done before more rain fell Saturday afternoon.

  Race Chair Jeremy Alexander said he scouted the various routes early Saturday and was pleasantly surprised to find no fallen limbs or standing water impeding the way following the storm Friday evening. Alexander said after riding in the Tour de Charleston since its inception, he was still adjusting to working behind the scenes this year, but was glad to play this role. He gave each group of racers an overview of the routes before they headed out from the square. “It takes a cyclist to look out for cyclists’ safety sometimes,” Alexander said. Photos: 2024 Tour de Charleston COURTHOUSE BACKDROP RACE CHAIR EASTBOUND CYCLING FAMILY STARTING LINE TURNING SOUTH See Tour de Charleston’s 25-mile race roll out