SALISBURY, Md.- More than 5,000 cyclists are expected to ride in Saturday’s annual Sea Gull Century bicycle tour, which begins and ends on the campus of Salisbury University.
The popular endurance ride attracts cyclists from around the nation, with an economic contribution of nearly $7 million to the area.
Amy Waters, event coordinator, expects more than 5,300 registered cyclists will turn out for this year’s Sea Gull Century. She said this is one of the biggest annual events for Salisbury and Wicomico County, taking nine months to plan every year.
“Most local businesses embrace the event,” Waters said.
Participants can choose between the 100-mile Assateague Century course that makes its way to scenic Assateague Island or the 64-mile Princess Anne metric route. Rest stops will be located at Washington High School in Princess Anne, Byrd Park in Show Hill, Newark Park, Assateague Island State Park and the Powellville VFW. People can support the cyclists by watching at these locations.
Waters suggested a rest stop where friends and family can go to.
“We recommend Assateague State Park. It’s such a scenic stop,” Waters said.
There will be a show-and-go Saturday from 7-9 a.m. as the riders leave the SU campus and head straight on Bateman Street to South Division Street. Campus festivities take place from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m Saturday with music entertainment by the Bo Dickerson Band. Cyclists finish in Red Square by 6 p.m.
About 100 students from Salisbury University will be volunteering for the event. Many athletic teams and clubs from across the campus will also be joining the cause.
“It’s a team-building event where they all come together and represent SU,” Waters said.
All proceeds from the event will go to the community as well as the Salisbury University campus, contributing to student scholarships and faculty grants, Wicomico County’s Habitat for Hummanity, Women Supporting Women and other local non-profit groups.
The Sea Gull Century is a rain or shine event. For more information, view the event website.
