Wednesday, December 2, 2009

2010 ECHELON Gran Fondo Series Launched in Napa & Columbia River Gorge



PRESS RELEASE
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - ECHELON Gran Fondo announces its first two locations today: Napa, California; and The Columbia River Gorge in Oregon. Echelon is the signature fundraising series of PlanetZ, a non-profit organization whose passion for cycling and charitable giving is the basis for the Echelon conception. With a mix of pro, amateur, and recreational riders, Echelon Gran Fondo events bring the pageantry of the Tour de France to the masses, with a range of epic courses designed to challenge and inspire all levels of rider.

Echelon series events will raise funds primarily for local hospitals and cancer foundations, and are part of the 2010 LIVESTRONG grass roots fund raising campaign.

"It is important to us that there is a tangible benefit at the local level in our events." said Echelon’s event director, David Cochran. He added, "PlanetZ's commitment to the sport of cycling, our charitable partners, and their communities, represent a recipe for success in 2010 and for years to come."

The outstanding natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge and Napa Valley locations offers riders some of the finest cycling terrain in the USA, and a perfect backdrop for such special events.

At each location a range of courses, approximately 30, 60 and 100 miles long, are offered. All rides are fully-supported.

Initially, Echelon has partnered with Garmin for GPS products, Bicycling Magazine, Hammer Nutrition for nutrition products, Rudy Project for helmets and eyewear, and Capo Forma for cycling apparel. Other series sponsors are currently being sought.

"Although we are a new series, our organization includes some of the most experienced marketing, communications, and production talent in the USA. We are confident that our events will be well promoted and well organized," said Cochran.

Echelon will open its online registration on December 15.

ECHELON--NAPA
Napa, California, May 23, 2010


ECHELON--COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE
The Dalles, Oregon, September 26, 2010


About PlanetZ
PlanetZ is a non-profit member organization that promotes human affairs including health, community and the environment.

Event website: www.echelongranfondo.org

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3 comments:

  1. This is excellent!

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  2. I'm thrilled for this event!

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  3. This is outstanding. Both at stellar locations. I like that they are doing it for charity too.

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