The 2021 Paralympic Cycling season kicks off in Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park the week of April 17-18 with more than 100 Paralympic athletes from around the country competing. The event is expected to have an estimated economic impact of $210,000 on the local economy.

“Space, technology and automotive sectors are already centerpieces to the Huntsville economy,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “Now we’re focused on ensuring quality-of-life industries such as sports, music, and culture are also a significant part of our offerings.

“We’ve been investing in our recreation opportunities because sports have something for everyone. The world’s top competitors are putting it all on the line on the same fields, roads, and facilities that the residents of this great city enjoy each and every day.

“Whether at work or play, for locals and professionals, the sports industry provides entertainment and economy for a dynamic city.”

The Huntsville Paralympics Cycling Open is a free event that follows Explorer Drive around Cummings Research Park.

According to Claire Aiello, vice president of Marketing and Communications at the Chamber, the Paralympic Planning Committee meets weekly with Medalists Sports in Atlanta who is helping plan the logistics of the event.

“This city is great because we know how to work at different levels, but we all grow in the same direction,” said Aiello.

The Huntsville-Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau is also involved with working with hotels and restaurants.

“We’re thrilled and honored to host the U.S. Paralympics Cycling Open in Huntsville,” said Judy Ryals, president and CEO of the CVB. “This prestigious event joins the SEC Gymnastics Championships along with numerous other sporting events being hosted in the Rocket City.

“Bringing sporting events to our community is a team effort, and we’re fortunate to have active and engaged partners and organizations as well as some of the finest sports and recreation facilities in the nation.”