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Bookwalter Binge Gran Fondo to Raise Funds for Trip for Kids WNC

Join Tour de France veteran Brent Bookwalter of BMC Racing Team on a bike ride in Black Mountain, North Carolina on November 1, 2014. Course options range from 83 miles – 10 miles

Asheville, NC – July 28, 2014  -- Join Brent and Jamie Bookwalter at the inaugural Bookwalter Binge Gran Fondo through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Black Mountain and Asheville, North Carolina. Three ride options offed (83 miles, 30 miles, 10 miles) ensure something for everybody from the Tour de France professionals to the recreational rider looking to spend a family day on two wheels.

Pro Cyclist Brent Bookwalter of BMC Racing Team“The Blue Ridge Mountains are my favorite in the world to ride a bike,” said Bookwalter. “The miles I’ve spent out on these roads have given me countless fond memories and helped shape the person I am as well as the professional cyclist I’ve become. The Binge is my chance to share an amazing experience in a unique corner of the world that I’m lucky enough to call home.”

The mass start event begins at 8:30AM on November 1, 2014. All participants will enjoy a marked course marshaled by volunteers. The 83-mile route includes follow cars, four aid stations and three timed climbs. While the event is not a race, prizes will be awarded to the top fundraiser and KOM/QOM at a post-even lunch provided by Mamacita’s at Pisgah Brewing.

“The Binge could not happen without the support of the people that make up the communities of Black Mountain and Asheville,” said Bookwalter. “We are excited for participants to experience the local charm and generosity that has allowed the vision and mission of the Binge to be realized.”

Early bird registration runs until July 31, with prices ranging from $40 (10 miles) - $80 (83 miles). Juniors (ages 9-16) are free with a registered adult. With participation capped at 300 riders, early registration is encouraged. Should spaces still be available come ride day, day of entry will be permitted. 

All funds raised from the Bookwalter Binge will go directly to Trip for Kids WNC. The non-profit organizes cycling clubs at local area schools, providing training to club volunteers and supplying the schools with bikes and other cycling-related equipment. Trips for Kids targets schools with children who often do not have bikes at home and would lack access to safe riding areas without the support of the clubs at their school.

“Volunteering with a Trips for Kids middle school bike club was all it took for my wife Jamie and me to realize the power of a bike on a young kid’s life,” said Bookwalter. “Healthy exercise, a greater appreciation for the environment and the simple joy of soaring on two wheels are things all kids should have the chance to experience. Trips for Kids WNC has made a big impact in the lives of countless children, and we hope the Binge can support them in this mission.”

Bookwalter Binge sponsors include: Asheville Bike Racing Club, Mamacita's, the Drake Family, the Adsmith, Powerbar, Pisgah Brewing Company, Jeff Stewart’s Broker Asheville, Athens Winter Bike League, Siemens family law group, Cane Creek Cycling Components, Medalist Sports, Youngblood Bicycles, Liberty Bicycles, Motion Makers Bicycle Shop, and Whole Foods.

To learn more about the Bookwalter Binge: http://www.bookwalterbinge.com/
To register for the Bookwalter Binge: https://www.usacycling.org/register/2014-1967
To learn more about Trips for Kids WNC: http://tripsforkidswnc.com/

View from Mount Mitchell in the Autumn