Bikers compete in Tour De France-style race

The first of four Tour De France-style mountain bike races to be held in Brownsville took place Sunday at the Trail and Field Park on West Alton Gloor Boulevard, part of the USA Bike Race Series.

"I love the sport, I do it for fun," said Joe Aguilar, the first-place winner in the expert category. "I've been riding since I was 22. Now that I'm 40, I try and keep up with the younger ones."

Event coordinator Meri Heggie said the race, which had five competitive categories, was a success.

"We liked today's outcome," Heggie said. "We do this mainly to give people an opportunity locally, instead of having to travel."

The race started at 8:30 a.m. Race categories were 10 and under, 11-15, and beginner, sport and expert categories.

A $10 fee was charged for all entering racers. The money will be used to buy water, Gatorade, fruit and equipment for the next race, plus the medals and ribbons that are given to the top five winners in each category.

The next race will be Sept. 10 at Trail and Field Park. More racers are expected to participate, Heggie said.