Osage Prairie Bicycle Tour set for April 27
 
PARSONS, KS — The Parsons Police Officers Association has announced that the 16th Annual Osage Prairie Bicycle Tour has be set for Saturday, April 27 at 8 a.m. The ride will begin in Parsons and will feature four options for participants including a 3, 15, 40 and 70 mile bicycle ride through the scenic Labette County . This event is sponsored by the Parsons Police Officers Association, with help from volunteers and proceeds will benefit local youth organizations.
 
All courses will begin and end at the shelter house in Forest Park in Parsons at the intersection of Heacock and Grand Streets. In addition, all routes are on State and County paved roads.
 
Participants in the 70-mile course will take you from Parsons through rural Labette County including the cities of Altamont, Oswego , Chetopa and Edna. The 40-mile course will take you from Parsons to Altamont and Oswego before returning to Parsons. The short 15 mile course will travel around and through the City of Parsons , as will the newly introduced 3 mile ride for families.
 
While on the Osage Prairie Bicycle Tour, you will experience the sights and sounds of springtime in farming country where the Prairie meets the Ozarks! Participants can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as deer and wild turkey in their natural habitat, cows and newborn calves grazing the lush green pastures, and a variety of plants coming to life. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the rolling hills from the peacefulness of your bicycle. This is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature!
 
Entry fees for both the 70-mile and 40-mile rides are $30 per person if you pre-register before April 23. The day of the event, entry fees are $35 per rider. The local 15-mile ride is $20 if pre-registered before April 23. The day of the event it will be $25 per rider. The 3 mile ride is free, but if you want a t-shirt it is $10. Included with the 15, 40 and 70 mile ride entry fees: water stops, sag service, and an official Osage Prairie Bicycle Tour t-shirt. All riders are required to wear a helmet.
 
For more information, call Charlotte at (620) 421-7069 or Sherri at (620) 421-7065. More information and registration forms can be found by joining the Facebook Group, PPOA Osage Prairie Tour.