In promoting the second annual Tour of Missouri to cyclists around the world, it’s quite likely organizers waxed poetically about the beauty of the scenery.

We’re sure they also explained the challenges posed by the varied terrain and praised the warmth and friendliness of the people the competitors would encounter along the way.

Did anyone think to mention the weather? Thank goodness cyclists are a hardy bunch.

The lead-up to today’s 12:30 p.m. kickoff of the race has been soggy in much of Northwest Missouri. The forecast calls for a good possibility of more rain and thunderstorms today.

We’re sure the cyclists will show up and put on a great competition. Let’s hope that local supporters also turn out in numbers that demonstrate how much we appreciate that St. Joseph was chosen for the start of this 600-mile event.

Starting at 11:30 this morning, riders from the 15 participating teams will be available to meet spectators at the Rider Sign-In/Autograph Alley, near the start line on Francis Street in front of City Hall. The crowd will include a number of athletes who have just returned from competition in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China, and St. Joseph’s own Olympian weightlifter, Wes Barnett, who will be the official starter.

After a quick turn around the Pony Express Statue, the riders will head east up Frederick to Noyes Boulevard, south on Noyes following the Parkway to Alabama, west on Alabama to King Hill Avenue and then south to the city limits. It’s a well-chosen route that highlights much of the beauty of our city and Parkway system.

To fully appreciate the significance of the Tour of Missouri, you need to understand that about 120 world-class cyclists will participate over seven days. The multi-stage, point-to-point race will conclude its first stage about 4 p.m. today — weather permitting — with final circuit laps around the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City. The final stage will end a week from now in St. Louis.

About 400,000 Missourians viewed at least part of the inaugural event in 2007. Rain or shine, St. Joseph area residents should take this unique opportunity to witness this exceptional competition — and the spectacle that is professional cycling.