Race for the Fifth: Brownsberger Set to 'Tour de 5th' Saturday

The five Democratic candidates for the Fifth Massachusetts Congressional District are running hard across the district to win the Special Election on Oct. 15.

On Saturday, one candidate will be biking hard for 110 miles to visit all 24 cities and towns all in a single day. That means traveling from the Atlantic Ocean in Winthrop to Holliston near the source of the Charles River.

Dubbed the “WB4Congress Tour de 5th," State Sen. Will Brownsberger will be spending approximately 12 hours in the seat with a peloton of supporters on Aug. 31, starting in Arlington Center at 6 a.m. 

But those who know the Belmont resident are not surprised that Brownsberger would kickoff his campaign with a bike ride. A competitive triathlete, he biked across  the US in the summer of 2011; in fact, announced his campaign for Massachusetts State Senate while in North Dakota on that ride.

The ride will consist of a figure 8 course and three specific legs that supporters can ride with Brownsberger. 

Brownsberger will stop at the town hall of each community to meet with local citizens where he will hear concerns and discuss issues of importance specific to each town and the district as a whole, according to a press release concerning the 'Tour.'

In a video posted this week, Brownsberger outlines his reasons for riding, his vision for the district and the approach he’ll bring to Congress.

“During my time in the state legislature, I've stayed very close to my constituents – using every possible way to stay in touch and listening carefully to them,” Brownsberger said. 

“I believe in being present in the communities I represent – in person and accessible. This tour is a commitment to that connection. I believe in listening, taking action, and doing what’s right. This is the approach I will bring to Congress, working hard for my constituents to tackle the real challenges we face.” 

For more information, visit http://www.willbrownsbergerforcongress.com/news/kickoff/. 

The page contains route maps and when and where to meet. Fellow cyclists can also sign up to join part of the ride. Tour updates will be sent via Twitter at #WBbikesMA5.