Due to ongoing uncertainty and health concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic, the 2020 Baroudeur has been canceled. The sixth annual ride in support of student scholarships was slated for Saturday, July 25.
A full refund will be issued to anyone who has already registered for this year’s event. Details about the 2021 Baroudeur will be shared as soon as they are available.
“This was a difficult decision, and we share in the disappointment of the campus and cycling community,” said ride director Matt Lockwood. “We’ve built the best ride in Detroit, and in true Baroudeur spirit, we will ride together again soon.”
Introduced in 2015, the Baroudeur has grown from a grassroots ride to become one of the most popular events in Michigan. President M. Roy Wilson, an avid cyclist, championed creation of the event shortly after joining Wayne State. Annually, the Baroudeur brings nearly 1,000 cyclists of all fitness levels to the city for their choice of four open-road courses and back to WSU’s campus for a post-ride celebration, complete with a picnic, craft beer and music. The event is supported by approximately 300 dedicated volunteers.
“While I was very much looking forward to this year’s Baroudeur, I am confident that we’re making the best decision to help keep our community safe at this time,” said Wilson. “I am thankful to all of those who were planning to participate, either as cyclists or volunteers, for their understanding, and hope that they’ll join us again next summer. ”
Proceeds from the event directly benefit Wayne State University scholarships and the Helping Individuals Go Higher Program, which supports students whose unstable housing situations threaten their dreams of earning a degree. Those who are interested in supporting student scholarships or the HIGH Program can still do so online: