Local volunteers needed to host cyclists for seven days in June Minneapolis (April 25, 2008) — The Great River Energy Bicycle Festival is looking for volunteers to host athletes competing in the Nature Valley Grand Prix. Host housing is needed June 10 through June 16, 2008.
Professional and elite amateur cyclists – both men and women – from around the world will travel to Minnesota to participate in the Nature Valley Grand Prix, the professional cycling race that’s part of the Great River Energy Bicycle Festival The entry fees paid by the riders are donated to Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota. Hosts help raise money for Children’s because, by reducing the expenses for the teams, they allow more teams to participate. This is also a unique opportunity for hosts to get to know World class athletes, including national and world champions, some of who will be racing at the Olympic Games this August.
Hosts are asked to provide a comfortable sleeping space (bed or airbed), the use of a bathroom and shower, access to a kitchen and refrigerator, the use of a washer and dryer, and a secure place for the cyclist to store a bicycle and related gear at night. Hosts are not expected to provide food or transportation.
“The athletes are very gracious house guests,” said Kathy Dowd, volunteer coordinator of host housing for the Festival. “They are professionals representing a sponsored team and so the cyclists are very aware that they are representing their sponsors and teams at all times - not just when they are racing.”
“We have enjoyed hosting riders for the Nature Valley Grand Prix,” said Jacqueline Teisberg of Minneapolis. Ms. Teisberg has hosted cyclists in her home for five consecutive years. “At the end of the day, the riders always share their stories and provide insight into what their lives are like on the pro racing circuit. It’s entertaining and educational to host these professional athletes for a few days each summer.”
Individuals or families interested in providing housing for these professional athletes are encouraged to contact Kathy Dowd, Host Housing Coordinator, at 952-926-1800 or Kathy.Dowd@childrensmn.org or visit www.MinnBikeFest.com.
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