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For more information, contact: Fryeburg Hosts Maine and National Bike Rally Fryeburg, Maine - Hundreds of bicyclists from throughout the country will come to Fryeburg on July 11-13 for the 20th Annual Maine Bike Rally, chosen as the League of American Bicyclists' 2008 National Rally. The event will feature more than 30 bike rides in western Maine and the Mt. Washington Valley area of New Hampshire and a full weekend of affordable, family entertainment. "The Maine Bike Rally has a national reputation as an outstanding event and we are thrilled to participate," said Andy Clarke, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists in Washington, D.C. The League selects a different location for its national rally each year. A committee of local officials, business leaders, bicyclists and enthusiastic volunteers is working on plans for the rally. Co-hosts include the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, a statewide education and advocacy group, Casco Bay Bicycling Club, Merrymeeting Wheelers Bicycle Club and the town of Fryeburg. "The Maine Bike Rally will acquaint visitors with the region's beauty, historical and cultural sites and incredible opportunities for biking and other recreational activities," said Fryeburg Selectman David Knapp. "Local businesses have embraced the rally because of the significant economic benefits that the rally can bring to the area." The Maine Bike Rally will be based at Fryeburg Academy and the school is a major partner. Fryeburg Academy students created logos for the rally in art classes. Their teacher, Stephen Pullan, designed the logo that will be used to market the event. The rally offers rides from five to 100 miles along winding country lanes, on forest trails and through scenic valleys. Special events include a time trial race, stargazing night rides, a bike-in outdoor film, ice cream social, bike art show, bike parade, music and opportunities for swimming, canoeing and other activities. Major sponsors of the rally include VBT Bicycling Vacations, Dearborn Precision Tubular Products, Inc., the Amtrak Downeaster, Fryeburg Academy, the town of Fryeburg, the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) and radio station WMWV. A full list of sponsors may be found at http://www.bikemaine.org/mainebikerally. Registration fees starting as low as $70 cover the cost of camping for the weekend, all rides, delicious meals and a T-shirt. Lower rates are available for children. Registration information may be found at www.BikeMaine.org or by calling (207) 623-4511. Advocating bicycling safety, education and access in Maine since 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine is working to make Maine accessible and safe for all residents and visitors so they may comfortably and responsibly bicycle. The BCM also promotes bicycling for transportation, health, recreation and fun to enhance our communities, environment and economy. # # #
Better Bicycling in Maine Since 1992 |