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Get ready to ride: Flossmoor’s 3rd annual ‘Bike the Gem’ is coming

Flossmoor’s Future has announced the third annual ‘Bike the Gem,’ scheduled for Saturday, June 3. Residents of Flossmoor, registered half marathon runners, and the inquisitive are invited to participate. 

The event is not a competition but rather a collective cycling experience, promising a relaxed ride along certain Hidden Gem Half Marathon course sections. To ensure the safety of all riders, Flossmoor Police and Fire have announced that they will provide escort and traffic control. 

Bike the Gem riders get a police escort. (Chronicle file photo)

Riders are required to register beforehand, and they are advised to check in at the Infant Jesus of Prague School north parking lot located at Douglas Avenue and Flossmoor Road in Flossmoor. The ride sign-in will commence at 10 a.m. Goodspeed Cycle will be there during check-ins to help riders get situated. 

The event organizers have announced that this year’s ride will offer two distinct options that cater to riders of all ages. 

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  • For healthy riders aged 9 and above, the Half of The Half (6.5 Miles) Ride is the recommended option. The Hidden Gem Half Marathon’s second half will feature a brisk 6.5-mile ride, which was shortened to avoid road closures. The ride will depart at 11 a.m.
  • The Kids Ride – The Last Mile 13.1 Blocks is the second option for children aged 8 and under. This ride allows them to join their parents or grandparents and experience the thrill of crossing the finish line by riding the last mile of The Hidden Gem Half Marathon course. The ride is scheduled to depart at 11:30 a.m., with registration and check-in opening an hour prior at 10:30 a.m.

“Now that we’ve had the Hidden Gem for a number of years, the majority of the residents are very familiar with the course,” says Flossmoor’s Future president Tom Dobrez. “The ‘Bike the Gem’ has taken on a life of its own. It’s a free community bike ride and an opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy the village. It’s turned into a nice Saturday morning community event.” 

Bike the Gem riders showed enthusiasm and determination. (Chronicle file photo)

The upcoming community ride is set to culminate in Downtown Flossmoor, with a celebratory gathering planned on the deck of Flossmoor Station Brewery. In addition, the annual, limited-edition Hidden Gem beer will be unveiled as part of the event.

The Hidden Gem Half Marathon will take place Saturday, September 9. Participants can find more information and register on the Hidden Gem Half Marathon website. 

Fall back Sunday 2 a.m.

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