Tulsa Tough is back, and thousands of bicyclists are in town for the big event. Since last year's event was canceled, a lot of racers said they're excited to be back.

“It's great to be back at racing and the number of people racing, it's going to be incredible,” rider Chris Parsons said.

Riders lined up at the intersection of 3rd Street and Elgin to begin the Men's Category Three.

"Wouldn't want to miss it, it's just a great atmosphere, this year will be the first year bringing the wife and kids,” rider Kirk Monk said.

Monk and his daughter came all the way from Illinois to take part in the three-day event. He said he's going after the prize.

"Prize money gets higher the faster you are and usually there is a lot of team tactics with faster groups, there's a lot of money at stake,” Monk said.

Executive Director for Saint Francis Tulsa Tough Malcolm McCollam said they're glad to see this back again.

“Especially this year coming out of the COVID pandemic, being able to have a community event,” McCollam said.

Day one ended with the Men's Pro One. Monk said even if they don't win anything, they're still going have fun.

“The main thing is to finish the race and finish well and not crash,” Monk said.

Racing resumes Saturday morning in the Tulsa Arts District.