Governor Matt Blunt spoke today in Jefferson City on the economic impact of last September’s inaugural Tour of Missouri Bike Race as well as highlight the tour route for this year. Governor Blunt said the race generated a staggering $26.2 million in new tourism dollars for the state and added it was chance for Missourians to shine. This year’s 600 mile course will start in St. Joseph on September 8th and wrap up on September 14th in St. Louis. Close to 400 thousand spectators lined the tour route last year to catch a glimpse of world class cyclists.