by Tom Howard
It was a time for petals and pedals, for turning cranks and turning heads with beautifully decorated bikes.
More than 200 riders adorned their bikes with flowers and other pretty things just before taking a spin through the scenic areas surrounding Shiloh Crossing as part of the third annual Tour de Fleur May 6. This female-oriented event encourages women to celebrate spring by climbing aboard their bikes. Over the years, the event has helped many women embrace cycling and overcome challenges they had about venturing out on two wheels.
The event also raised more than $14,000 for Billings TrailNet.
“It was a really good atmosphere,” said Becky Salyer, owner of Bumps ‘n Bundles, a maternity and baby store at Shiloh Crossing. “After everybody went for their rides, they stuck around, had fun and listened to the live music,” which was provided by Song Dog Serenade.
Mary Beth Beaulieu was selected as the Tour de Fleur’s 2018 Participant of Honor and took home a Terry bicycle.
She and her husband had taken a seven-year leave of absence from riding bikes, but her interest in cycling was rekindled a few years ago.
Mary Beth renewed her interest in cycling after seeing Billings TrailNet Executive Director Kristi Drake speak about a women-oriented bike ride during a Wild Women of the West gathering at the Billings Depot. She approached Kristi after the gathering and offered to help out in any way.
Other prize winners were:
Danielle Guyer- Winner of Bumps & Bundles & Bottega Styling Photo shoot session
Donna Young- Winner of the Riddle’s Jewelers Huffy Bike
Amy Satrom-Winner of Girls’ Night Out at Neecee’s and catered by Levity
Ceci Bentler- Winner of a Ladies Trek Bike donated by Jim and Sheila Downs.
Kristi Drake made the winning bid for the Tour de Fleur pendant from Goldsmith Gallery Jewelers
Jim Downs made the winning bid for the Po Campo handlebar bag for his wife, Sheila
Other Participant winners: Gift Certificates for $100 to Terry Bicycling Co., Bike Saddles from Terry Bicycling, 5 Guy Burgers gift cards, bike helmets and bike bells, water bottles.
Billings TrailNet thanks all sponsors, the Shops at Shiloh, volunteers, the planning committee and riders for making the Tour de Fleur a fantastic event!