TULSA, Okla. — The second weekend of June is typically a big one for the city of Tulsa. Thousands of people from around the world gather for the St. Francis Tulsa Tough, a three-day bicycle festival. However, this year, that won’t happen.
Related Story: Saint Francis Tulsa Tough Canceled due to Coronavirus Concerns, officials say
“When we really looked at it that way, everybody agreed that it just wasn’t the right time to have an event of this magnitude bringing tens of thousands of people together in downtown Tulsa," said Malcom McCollam, executive director of Saint Francis Tulsa Tough.
Mike Wozniak owns The Soundpony, a bike bar, and supports teams in Tulsa Tough. He said the cancellation will have a big economic impact on local businesses and restaurants, many of which are already struggling. It will especially be felt by all of the racers.
“Not only the racers inside of Tulsa, but from around the country," Wozniak said. "They’re all going to be pretty devastated.”
This would have been the 15th year for Tulsa Tough. An event that has put Tulsa on the map.
“It has created a national identity for Tulsa," Wozniak said. "Oklahoma is usually at the bottom of all the health and wellness statistics. So, it’s so nice to showcase an event like this that really is a health and wellness event.”
Thanks to the financial support of sponsors, racers can get their entry fee money refunded. McCollam said while it is unfortunate, he’s at peace with the decision to cancel.
“I think it’s important for us to keep that perspective that as much as this might hurt, it’s not nearly as hurtful as people who have experienced this disease and this pandemic personally," he said.
While this year’s event is canceled, you can start planning for next year’s. It’s scheduled for June 11-13.
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