Several Gators, including President Flores and his wife Dr. Noel Bezette-Flores, rode in the Tour de Houston bike event this Sunday, March 17.

Other UHD riders included Mercedes Gonzales, Richard Ogle, Annabella Gutierrez, Alex Neira and Margaret Shelton.

Mayor Annise Parker and Sen. Rodney Ellis, were among the 5,000 riders who departed City Hall around 7:30 a.m., traveled up Allen Parkway to River Oaks, then to Hobby Airport and Clear Lake before circling back to City Hall. Riders could opt for a 20-, 45- or 70-mile route through the city.

The event is sponsored by Apache Corporation with funds raised benefiting Houston's reforestation efforts through Houston Parks Board, a nonprofit partner of the city. The ride also serves as a recommended ride for the BP MS 150, which UHD participates in as well.

The UHD team from left: Dr. Noel Bezette-Flores, Mercedes Gonzales, Dr. Richard Ogle, Dr. William Flores, Dr. Margaret Shelton and Annabella Gutierrez.

President Flores, Dr. Noel Bezette-Flores, Senator Rodney Ellis