Get your cowbells ready – Rolla will host the third stage finish for the Tour of Missouri professional cycling race on Wednesday, Sept. 9. Cyclists are expected to arrive from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at the finish line on 10th Street in front of Castleman Hall. Missouri S&T is a major local sponsor of the event.

The Tour of Missouri was recently elevated to 2.HC status by the governing body for professional cycling; making it one of the top five races outside of Europe.

The activities are scheduled to include a Health and Wellness Exposition, kid’s bike races and musical performances near the finish line. S&T’s Garmin Day has also been scheduled to coincide with the event.

This is an opportunity for Missouri S&T and Rolla to get exposure. Last year’s event had an estimated 434,000 spectators (12,000 to 15,000 in Rolla), and an economic impact on the state of $30,000,000. It was webcast in 139 countries, recapped nightly on FSN Midwest, and covered on the Versus cable network and in a summary show on network television. There were many Rolla references and promotional spots for local sponsors, including Missouri S&T.

Some campus parking lots will be closed during the day of the race and 10th Street will be closed from Bishop Avenue to Main Street for the setup of the finish line. Additional information will be provided closer to the event.

For more information about the Tour of Missouri, go online to tourofmissouri.com.