Despite Hot Temperature, Cyclists Take To Downtown Sand Springs Streets

As temperatures edged toward the century mark Wednesday, cyclists raced the streets of downtown Sand Springs for Speedwheel.

Most people watching the race stayed in the shade, but the cyclists train to be out in the summer heat.

"If you're not used to the heat and you're getting out in the heat - water, water, water," cyclist Joel Kantor said.

Wednesday, because of the 104 heat index, the riders carried more water with them than usual.

Speedwheel organizer KC Walker said, "Our goal is to make sure everybody stays healthy and safe and no dehydration issues."

Race organizers made sure they had lots of nutrients and electrolytes handy for the riders. To help, organizers had powders on hand for cyclists to add to their drinks.

Walker said, "It replaces all the salt and the potassiums that your body loses when you sweat out in this 103-degree weather. Lemon Lime is my favorite. Orange is delicious."

Most of the people that watched Speedwheel are on another ride called Freewheel, a 7-day bicycle ride across Oklahoma.