(BLOOMINGTON) – The annual Little 500 bicycle race presented by IU and the IU Student Foundation kicks off today.
This year’s women’s race will begin at 4 p.m. on today and the men’s race at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Bill Armstrong Stadium. Pole positions will be held by SKI in the women’s race and Cutters in the men’s race.
The Bloomington Police Department would like to issue some suggestions and reminders to ensure that everyone celebrates in a safe, responsible manner:
- Stay in groups. Never allow a friend to go off on their own and be sure to have a sober person in your group that is responsible for making sure everyone stays together.
- Know the Lifeline Law. Indiana law protects people under 21 from prosecution of certain alcohol-related offenses if they call for help in a medical emergency, call to report a crime, or have been the victim of a sexual assault.
- If you see someone in need of help, call 911 and stay at the scene to provide first responders with information…it could save a life.
- Ask questions before you get in. If you use a ride-sharing app, always make sure the vehicle picking you up matches the description provided on the app. Also, ask the driver for your name. If he or she doesn’t know it, don’t get in.
- Use drop-off and pick-up locations. New this year, locations will be marked with digital signboards in the downtown area that will direct ride-share users, cabs, and designated drivers to pre-determined areas for orderly and efficient drop-off and pick-up.
Every member of the Department will be working this weekend to keep the citizens of Bloomington, students, and visitors safe.
Their goal is for all to have fun and responsibly celebrate the largest collegiate bicycle race in the United States during what many consider “The World’s Greatest College Weekend.”
