For the second year in a row, 55 cyclists invaded Vermilion Parish on Tuesday and today.

Abbeville is a stop on their six-day, 535-mile bike tour along the Gulf Coast to raise funds for the American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross Tour du Rouge is geared towards serious cyclists and all participants are required to raise money to cover their expenses.

The tour began in Humble, TX on Sunday, May 2 and will end in New Orleans on Friday, May 7. Cyclists will ride an average of 89 miles each day with rest stops every 20-25 miles. In addition to Abbeville, cyclists will also overnight in Beaumont, TX, Sulphur, Morgan City, Gonzales and New Orleans. While in Abbeville, the cyclists will be treated to a wonderful meal at Comeaux’s Café, overnight at the Sunbelt Lodge and fuel-up on the breakfast buffet at Caffé Maria.

When they leave Abbeville, the bike tour will visit Avery Island before heading to Morgan City. Organizers for the American Red Cross wanted to feature the local cuisine and entertainment of each city to allow the cyclists to experience the rich culture and heritage of south Louisiana.