FAQs

Where will this event be held?

Dean’s Ride will start and finish at the iconic Keel Farms in Plant City. Keel Farms is home to Keel and Curley Winery and Keel Farms Agrarian Ales and Ciders. Their Tasting Room and restaurant is surrounded by their several acres of fruit trees, strawberries and animals located at 5202 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City, FL 33565.

Do the proceeds of Dean’s Ride stay in the local community?

All proceeds from this event go to the Plant City YMCA to support its Livestrong program for cancer survivors. The Plant City YMCA is committed to provide cancer survivors a series of programs to help them along their road to recovery.

Can I register on the day of the ride?

Yes, however, the entry fee will be slightly higher on ride day. Please arrive 30 minutes before you hope to start riding to allow you time to register. We will accept cash or local checks on ride day. We don’t guarantee shirts for registering on ride day.

Do I have to wear a cycling helmet?

For your safety and protection, we do require that all rides wear a helmet.

Can I change the route that I signed up for?

Yes, you can ride any of routes that we offer. We have seen riders change their ride distance to better accommodate how they may feel that day. Each route segment will be marked for ease of identification.

Will the event have a staggered start?

Riders will be grouped by pace with faster riders leading the way. With the faster riders in front this will help minimize congestion at the start of the ride allowing for safer riding conditions.

How will the course be marked?

We will mark the course with both paint and signs. Each route segment will color coded on both the road and signs. For example, the metric century route will be marked with orange paint and orange sign arrows. The route will mostly traverse country roads along the north side of Plant City. Riders will enjoy the fresh smell of strawberries growing in the fields, farm animals and estates along Lake Thonotosassa.

Will there be ride support along the routes?

Yes, we have a group of motorcycle riders that will provide escort service along the route(s). The motorcycle support is provided by volunteers that are committed to help make our ride a huge success.

What happens if I have a mechanical problem on the ride?

We expect to have a sag van available ride day to assist riders with minor mechanical issues. Should the bike have a more serious issue we will have transportation to bring you back to Keel Farms.

Will lunch be provided after the ride?

The entry fee for Dean’s Ride includes both lunch, soft drinks, and craft beer. The Pint City Brew Club will once again provide some of their delicious freshly brewed craft beers made specifically for Dean’s Ride. We also plan to have vegan options available for our riders. Additionally, riders are welcome to hang around after our event to enjoy the Keel Farms restaurant and refreshing drinks.

Where do we park for Dean’s Ride?

Ample parking is available at Keel Farms. A flashing light showing “parking” will direct people where to park, which will be in a field just West of main entrance to Keel Farms.