St. Louis, Mo (March 18, 2010) --- The Tour of Missouri, the professional bicycling race that has taken place throughout the Show Me State since 2007 and has highlighted the state in a prolific and invaluable way, today announced a special campaign to solicit support for the race, scheduled for August 31 – September 6, 2010.

Over the course of three years, an estimated 1.2 Million spectators from more than 40 states and 20 countries have lined the roads of Missouri to see more than 120 world-class athletes race. The event also has been seen on FOX Sports Midwest, Versus and through live webcasts that have reached viewers in more than 170 countries.

"Like the Tour de France, this event has raised the profile of Missouri into a tourist destination by showcasing the sights and sounds of Missouri to the world. And best of all, it’s been a free public event that all walks of life have enjoyed," said Mike Weiss, president of the Missouri Bicycle Racing Association. "There is still debate at the state level for support of this event. We need continued state, and even general public support outside the realms of traditional corporate support, to continue this race. As Missouri and the country come out of the current recession, this event is needed more than ever to bring international profile, economic benefit and community goodwill. We’ve certainly witnessed that from the many folks on our facebook page, which we encourage people to view."

This unique artwork featuring the 3 previous champions will be featured prominently during the campaign, including on specialty items available through donations to the Tour of Missouri. (Click image to view larger version)

"I have talked with leaders of cities across the state who have hosted the Tour, who have seen how it brings communities together and really improves a city's quality of life," said Brent Hugh, Executive Director of the Missouri Bicycle & Pedestrian Federation. "The Tour is like a big community celebration and its health and wellness focus has inspired people across the state to get out and improve their fitness while enjoying Missouri's great outdoors."

Hugh added that in these global times, the event also has become a great international experience for those attending. Athletes from more than 30 countries have competed in the Tour of Missouri over the past three years making this the most international sporting event Missouri has hosted since the 1904 Olympics.

The economic impact on Missouri has been measured at more than $75 million over the past three years. Host cities have received media impressions in more than 170 countries. More than 30 cities have played host to the event and have benefitted from through international recognition.

Weiss and Hugh announced the following ways individuals can support the Tour of Missouri:

• Join the movement at "Support Tour of Missouri" by posting your comments at www.facebook.com/tourofmissouri. More than 4,000 people have joined since Monday, March 15, many submitting their views of the event.
• Donate by by visiting the DONATION SITE. There are various levels with premium benefits for your support. Because the Tour of Missouri is a not-for-profit venture, your donations are tax deductible.

1. Governor Jay Nixon’s office (573 751-3222, http://governor.mo.gov/ ),
2. Tourism Director Katie Danner Steele’s office (573-751-3051, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )
3. State legislators, which can be viewed online at www.MoBikeFed.org/ContactElectedOfficials

You can also contact Missouri state legislators and the Governor's office using this form.

For your conveneience, you may also print this pre-prepared letter, sign it, and mail it to the person(s) of your choice. CLICK HERE