Van Duzer and His Cruiser Nearing Washington, D.C. While Raising Awareness About the Vast Benefits of Bicycling

FT. COLLINS, CO--(Marketwire - July 31, 2009) - One month, 2,000 miles and countless friends later, Ryan Van Duzer is nearing Washington, D.C. on his two-wheeled, cross-country expedition. On June 20, Van Duzer departed from San Diego on a three-speed cruiser bike and is scheduled to arrive in the nation's capital by August 10 for a celebration of his journey with the League of American Bicyclists and the National Geographic Society. While the trip is ending soon, you can still experience Duzer (a witty character with bikes on the brain), donate to Community Cycles (http://www.communitycycles.org/media/37-2009-media/185-duzer-across-america.html), and sign up for Team Wonderbike (http://www.teamwonderbike.com) before his trip ends.

The cross-country trip appropriately concludes in Washington, D.C., where he will proudly share his message of bicycle advocacy. With some details still to be determined, Van Duzer will be the toast of a public event in National Geographic's courtyard where he will meet with representatives from the League of American Bicyclists as well as Bicycle Friendly Business designees and members of the Congressional Bike Caucus.

"The League of American Bicyclists is excited to welcome Ryan Van Duzer to D.C.," said Andy Clarke, League of American Bicyclists President. "Duzer embodies the League's philosophy that bicycling can be used for fun, fitness and transportation. We are eager to hear his stories of how America is truly becoming a bicycle-friendly nation one community at a time."

As he pedals across the nation, Van Duzer spreads the gospel of New Belgium Brewing's Team Wonderbike and his life-long passion for biking. He continues to meet with advocacy groups, bike lovers, and city planners from America's Bicycle Friendly Communities (http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bicyclefriendlyamerica/communities/) as recognized by the League of American Bicyclists.

"My trek so far has encouraged my belief that people everywhere love simple things -- a home cooked meal, a trusty bike, a good beer," said Van Duzer. "As I start heading toward our nation's capital I am enthusiastic about how we as a country can benefit by more people embracing the two-wheeled lifestyle."

People across the country have been tuning in to Van Duzer's personal story through his charismatic video diary, blogs, and Twitter and Facebook updates. Track his journey at http://www.newbelgium.com/duzer and come along when he gets to your area to share a meal, a beer or a bike ride.

New Belgium Brewing, maker of Fat Tire Amber Ale, is sponsoring Van Duzer's travels as part of its Team Wonderbike initiatives (http://www.newbelgium.com/team-wonderbike). Team Wonderbike was created by New Belgium to inspire and encourage folks to use their bike instead of their car as often as possible. Team Wonderbike membership is currently 18,000 strong, with more joining daily as Van Duzer's trek gets people thinking, "If he can ride across the country, I can ride to work!"

"With the help of the League of American Bicyclists, we are seeing the magic of a nationwide network of bicycle advocates pulling together," said Bryan Simpson, New Belgium Spokesperson and Team Wonderbike Spokes Model. "We've seen people across the country join Ryan on rides or offer him a place to sleep. We've witnessed the bicycling community rally together for a cause. It's nothing short of inspirational."

Visit http://www.newbelgium.com/duzer to look at the map and watch Duzer's video blog.

About New Belgium Brewing Company

New Belgium Brewing Company, makers of Fat Tire Amber Ale and a host of Belgian-inspired beers, began operations in a tiny Fort Collins basement in 1991. Today, the third largest craft brewer in the U.S., New Belgium produces seven year-round beers: Fat Tire Amber Ale, Sunshine Wheat, Blue Paddle Pilsner, 1554 Black Ale, Abbey, Mothership Wit, and Trippel, as well as a host of seasonal releases. In addition to producing world-class beers, New Belgium takes pride in being a responsible corporate role model with progressive programs such as employee ownership, open book management and a commitment to environmental stewardship. For more information, visit www.newbelgium.com.

Contact Information: CONTACT: Alicia Hassinger 720.933.8119