Additional Volunteers Needed

Blount County ARES will once again be providing amateur radio communications support for the Tour de Blount cycling event on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The race begins and ends at Maryville College, with volunteers stationed at key points along the route to support rider safety and event communications.

This popular annual event brings cyclists of all skill levels out onto Blount County roads, and our ARES team plays a vital role in keeping the event running smoothly. Whether staffing a water stop or providing SAG (Support and Gear) vehicle coverage, every position matters.

Trailer Prep Day: All volunteers are invited to join the team on Saturday, May 16 at BC911 starting at 10:00 AM to clean and inspect the communications trailer ahead of the event. Your help is appreciated!

Net Control & Trailer
• AI4SI — Rick: Trailer Moving & NCS
• W7FKI — Jim: Net Control (NCS)

Water Stop Volunteers
• AA0JE — Jim & Mike: Rocky Branch / Bethel Church
• KK4XA — Bob: Top of World — Flats Rd
• NW1A — Craig: Happy Valley Tunnel
• TBD — Volunteer Needed: AR Davis Rd

SAG Volunteers
• KE4FGW — David
• WB3JKQ — Lou
• KI4HDU — William
Additional SAGs would be helpful

Positions for returning volunteers will remain the same as last year unless a change is requested. If you would like a different assignment, or if you are interested in filling the open water stop position at AR Davis Road, please reach out to the event coordinator below.
Thank you to everyone who has signed up to help make Tour de Blount 2026 a safe and successful event. We will see you on May 16 for trailer prep — and on the course May 23!

Questions? Contact the Coordinator
Lou — WB3JKQ
Phone: 865-621-0715