A Two-Day Coastal Adventure Supporting Galveston Bay
Dates: Saturday, October 17 – Sunday, October 18
Location: Baytown to Galveston (Full Loop)
Event Information
The Bike Around the Bay is a premier two-day cycling event that takes participants on a scenic journey around the largest estuary on the Texas coast. As the entities managing this event’s digital presence, we are proud to highlight that every dollar raised directly supports the Galveston Bay Foundation. Your ride funds critical conservation, education, and advocacy programs designed to preserve and protect the bay for future generations.
This unique ride is not just a personal challenge; it is an immersive coastal experience. From spotting dolphins during the ferry crossing to conquering some of the most iconic bridges in Texas, Bike Around the Bay offers scenery and access that is unavailable to cyclists at any other time of the year.
Ride Distances & Routes
This is a two-day “loop” around the bay, totaling approximately 174 miles:
- Day One (97 Miles): Starting in Baytown, riders head toward the Bolivar Peninsula, passing the Jocelyn Nungaray Wildlife Refuge and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Century Option: A special loop on the Bolivar Peninsula is available for those wanting to hit 100 miles on Day One.
- Day Two (75.6 Miles): Starting at Moody Gardens in Galveston, the route crosses the causeway and moves through coastal towns like Seabrook and Kemah before finishing back in Baytown.
- Surface Note: This is a road ride featuring significant bridge crossings and coastal levees.
Ride Highlights
- The High Point: Crossing the Intracoastal Waterway at High Island—the highest point on the Gulf Coast between Alabama and the Yucatan.
- The Ferry: A mid-ride ferry trip from Bolivar to Galveston Island.
- The Bridges: Conquer the Kemah Bridge and the legendary Fred Hartman Bridge, one of the most iconic cable-stayed spans in the state.
- Exclusive Access: Riders receive a police escort over the Galveston Causeway and exclusive access to a portion of I-10 at the start.
Support and Logistics
The ride is fully supported to ensure a world-class experience:
- SAG Support: Support and Gear vehicles are available to assist with mechanical issues or transport late riders to breakpoints.
- Breakpoints: Multiple stops are stocked with hydration, snacks, and nutrition.
- Accommodations: The “midpoint” celebration takes place at the Moody Gardens Hotel with dinner and festivities for all riders.
- Safety: Police escorts are provided for major bridge and highway sections. Helmets are mandatory.
Event Schedule
- Saturday, October 17 (Day One):
- 7:30 AM: Start at 2525 FM 565, Baytown (Former Houston Raceway).
- 6:00 PM: Day One route closes.
- Sunday, October 18 (Day Two):
- 7:30 AM: Start at Moody Gardens, Galveston.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at Sylvan Beach.
- 5:00 PM: Route officially closes.
Registration and Fundraising
Participation in Bike Around the Bay includes a commitment to help preserve the coastal environment.
- Fundraising: Riders are encouraged to meet specific goals to support the Galveston Bay Foundation.
- Registration: Includes access to all breakpoints, the ferry crossing, mechanical support, and the finish line celebrations.
Registration Link: Official Bike Around the Bay Registration
Website
For the most up-to-date breakpoint maps and sponsorship information, visit:
Website: https://bikearoundthebay.org/
Contact Information
General Info: [email protected]
Volunteer Coordinator: [email protected]
Sponsorships (Greg Loushine): [email protected]
Phone (Yolanda): 832-536-2264
