Our Program on May 2nd was Tour de Tonka 2023 with the incomparable Tim Litfin and staff members Amber and Anna.  Prior to Tim’s presentation President Steve awarded MCE with a check for $2,500 for basketballs for MCE programs. 
 
TDT will take place this year on August 5th.  Tim started by asking members what the five numbers 18, 53, 41,390, 301 and 44 and Tim awarded prizes for correct answers.  They numbers meant: TDT now in its 18th year; there are 53 legacy who have ridden each year of TDT; over the last 17 years there has been a total of 41,390 riders; The various routes cove 301 miles; and TDT has drawn riders from 44 states!  Anna discussed the volunteer structure noting that they have 11 of the 17 Route Captains needed for this years event six routes.  Also the city of Winstead has been added to the route this upcoming year.  Amber discussed the gifts and merchandising of the event and offered 2022 rider shirts to members that wanted one.
 
Tim went on to thank all of the 16 incredible sponsors and drew specific attention and thanks to Bob Boyer for not only being a main sponsor but also erects the scaffolding for the main entrances.  Tim noted that in a University of Minnesota study the economic impact of 14.3 million dollars.  One of the main benificieries is ICA hbaving received $97,000 over the years and $7,000 last year.  This year’s event will honor the memory of ICA’s Ron Kamp who was a big support and promnoter of TDT. 
TDT has gained the reputation of being the best ride in Minnesota.  This is directly because of Tim’s meticulous planning and attention to detail.  Not only are there volunteers all along the way to assist bikers but also bike mechanics at each of the rest stations to make adjustments and repairs.  The cost per rider supports the cost of the event and the fees necessary for the 49 municipal permits and $25,000 it costs for public safety alone. 
 
Tim completed his presentation by asking individual members about their involvement and experiences in volunteering to be part of TDT.  Tim urged all of our club members to sign up for TDT23 on August 5th and can register or volunteer at: www.tourdetonka.org or call (952) 401-4157.  Have you signed up yet?