Cyclists will have opportunity to ride over Hoover Dam on Saturday, Sept. 22

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) has announced that three hotels will be the official hotel partners for the RTC 2012 Viva Bike Vegas Gran Fondo, offering cyclists discounted room rates for the event being held on Saturday, Sept. 22.

Cyclists interested in traveling to Las Vegas for the annual cycling event can enjoy discounted room rates at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino, and Staybridge Suites Las Vegas. Cyclists should register today and can book their room online at vivabikevegas.com, saving time and money on their Las Vegas trip.

The RTC 2012 Viva Bike Vegas Gran Fondo will feature three spectacular routes, 118, 72, and 17-mile courses, for cyclists of all skill levels taking riders from the Las Vegas Strip to the vistas of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and the scenic trails near Lake Mead National Park.

All cyclists will again have the opportunity to begin their ride under the bright

lights of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. In addition, century and 72-mile riders will have the unique opportunity to ride over the Hoover Dam.

Rider registration for the RTC 2012 Viva Bike Vegas Gran Fondo is available online at vivabikevegas.com. Cyclists who register early can save; all rides cost only $105 until May 30.

This year, the Viva Bike Vegas will occur at the conclusion of Interbike, the largest bicycle trade event in North America. Interbike (interbike.com) gathers more than 1,100 cycling-related brands and close to 24,000 total attendees annually.

Proceeds from Viva Bike Vegas will again benefit local charities: After-School All-Stars Las Vegas, UC San Diego Nevada Cancer Institute and Communities in Schools of Nevada.

The RTC is the transit authority, transportation planning agency and regional traffic management agency for Southern Nevada. The RTC’s vision is to provide a safe, convenient and effective regional transportation system that enhances mobility and air quality for citizens and visitors. The RTC encourages residents and visitors to use alternate commute modes to help reduce traffic congestion, clean the air and improve the quality of life in Southern Nevada. For more information, visit rtcsnv.com.