Mayors’ International Bike Ride set to celebrate 10 years of bringing communities together

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Mayors' International Bike Ride returns Saturday, celebrating its 10th year of bringing communities together across the U.S.-Mexico border.

The free, family-friendly event has drawn more than 500 registered riders, bringing together cyclists, mayors and elected officials from across the 4FrontED region.

The ride begins at 8 a.m. at the Desert Hills Golf Course parking lot in Yuma, with check-in and on-site registration opening at 7 a.m.

In addition, the route includes stops at Cocopah Korner Store, Somerton, Gadsden and San Luis before riders have the option to cross into Mexico.

Yuma Mayor Doug Nicholls said the event's 10-year milestone reflects how it has become a tradition embraced by the community, while also providing an opportunity to showcase the region to visitors.

"Almost half the people coming that are currently registered are from out of town. So that's a very big opportunity for us to show our community, not just in one part, but essentially in the whole county," Mayor Nicholls said. "And being the 10th year, it just means that this is something the community now owns. The communities wrap their arms around it. And this is something that's going to be happening, I think, for quite a while."

The ride concludes with a finisher celebration in San Luis Río Colorado, Mexico, featuring live music, local food and medals for participating cyclists.

The City of Yuma said first responders from throughout the region will help guide the group and support rider safety along the route.

Riders younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and those 16 and younger must wear a helmet.

The first 500 registrants will receive a complimentary official event T-shirt. Participants can register and find additional event details at YumaAz.gov/bikeride.