Mission
The Tour of the Unknown Coast was formed in 1978 with the following mission:
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- To organize an annual bicycling event in Northern California
- To encourage bicycle riders of all levels of cycling ability to participate
- To educate the general public regarding safe cycling practices and techniques
- To generate funds which are donated to non-profit organizations in the Northern California area
History
Before it became an organized event, the route used today for the Tour of the Unknown Coast Century was a favorite route among Humboldt County’s serious cyclists. In 1977, a group of these hardcore riders got together for an informal race for bragging rights over who could finish the loop the fastest. From this informal but enthusiastic beginning, the event known as the Tour of the Unknown Coast was officially launched in 1978.
Over time, event organizers recognized that not everyone wants to suffer through 100 miles in a day, and shorter routes were introduced, including the 50 mile and 100K rides. Eventually, the TUC expanded even further to encourage riders of all ages and abilities to take part by adding the family friendly 22 mile and 10 mile routes.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 rides. In 2022, event organizers brought back a “skinny” version of the TUC, with only a 100 mile and a 100 kilometer route offered. Turnout for these rides was close to pre-pandemic levels, which means the future of the event is looking good! The results of the 2022 event are here: Tour of the Unknown Coast 2022
The TUC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and supports other non-profit organizations in the North Coast community. Over the years, the TUC has donated almost $180,000 to various local groups. The 2022 donation recipients were:
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- Rotary Club of Southwest Eureka
- Redwood Coast Mountain Bike Association
- Humboldt Composite High School Mountain Bike Club
- Humboldt Amateur Radio Club
- Humboldt County Search and Rescue
- Honeydew Volunteer Fire Department
Board of Directors
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- Briar Bush
- Rob Legg
- Sid Noyes
- Sarah Schroer
- Bob Schultze
- Sean Tetrault
Contact Us
PO Box 6217
Eureka, CA 95502
tourunknowncoast@gmail.com