Contact Information: CONTACT: Alicia Hassinger 720.933.8119
Van Duzer and His Cruiser Nearing Washington, D.C. While Raising Awareness About the Vast Benefits of Bicycling
Colorado-Based Bicycle Advocate Promotes a Two-Wheeled Lifestyle
| Source: New Belgium Brewing
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.