The Oklahoma FreeWheel is Oklahoma’s premier bicycle touring event. It starts June 8th at Marietta near the Texas border, and ends at Caldwell, Kansas on the 14th. This year will be the Oklahoma FreeWheel’s 30th anniversary.
Along the way the tour passes through numerous small towns, and with over 1000 cyclists, as well as hundreds of support people, the tour creates a major impact in the communities it passes through.
For most of the towns, FreeWheel is the biggest event they have each year, FreeWheel’s director, Ellen Proctor, said. “We have many towns that request us to come because we’re a huge economic boost to some of these little towns. We probably come in with about 1,200 to 1,300 people to their town, and eat and fuel vehicles. They’re going to spend money,” Proctor said.
“It’s a week with nature and good people; it’s the best way to see Oklahoma. This is how you can meet the wonderful people of Oklahoma. This is like the best-kept secret of 30 years you’ve never heard of — it’s a great family vacation, great entertainment, and that’s what we want it to be for everyone who takes part.”
Read more: Bicyclists bring a boost from Tulsa World.
