Former Tour De France Rider Frankie Andreu To Be Grand Marshal At Tour De Troit

DETROIT, MI — Former Tour de France competitor Frankie Andreu will take up the lead of the 2017 Tour de Troit on Sept. 16. Organizers for the event say the former professional cyclist, who rode alongside dethroned pro cyclist Lance Armstrong, will be the grand marshal for ride through the Motor City’s neighborhoods.

Organizers of the Tour de Troit, Michigan’s largest cycling event, announced Andreu’s role this morning. His presence also will likely draw more riders who want to ride with and meet a former pro rider.

“A professional cyclist of this caliber will help elevate biking as a great way to exercise, compete, and get around town,” said Vittoria Katanski, director of the Tour de Troit.

Andreu, a Dearborn native who retired from professional cycling in 2000, welcomed the honor as grand marshal. “I am always pleased to promote cycling,” he said in a statement.

Although his professional career was tainted after he admitted to doping, Andreu remains a popular in cycling as a coach, commentator and advocate for the sport. He rode the Tour de France nine times. He and his wife Betsy also have clashed with notorious cyclist Armstrong over doping claims. Andreu and Armstrong were once friends and teammates, and Andreu was one of the key riders who helped Armstrong win the Tour de France.
Organizers for this year’s Tour de Troit expect 7,500 riders to register for the event. Riders can choose a 26-mile route that features a police escort, or a 62-mile rider. Both rides include snacks and drinks along the route through the city’s neighborhood, and food and beverages at the end.
The rides start in Roosevelt Park in the Corktown neighborhood. Registration is $50 through Sept. 1. For more information about the ride, visit the organizers' web site.