CBRC VP Liz Lukowski and Paula McConnell, two local women actively involved in cycling, create and plan VeloHello, the Capital District’s Girl Meets Bike Event to encourage women to try road, urban or mountain biking.
Albany, New York, April 23, 2010 – - Liz Lukowski and Paula McConnell, two local women passionate about cycling, are as different in person as their bikes are on the road. Liz, a fast road and cyclocross racer, and Paula, a “cargonista,” or cargo biker, often wonder why women are not well-represented in the sport of cycling. So rather than complaining, the two women decided to break down the barriers that keep women away from bicycles and created VeloHello, the fun, informative and woman- friendly cycling event. Kicking off Friday, April 30 at the Downtube Cycle Works in Albany with a fashion show, mini-workshops and party, the event continues on Saturday, May 1 at the Boor Sculpture Studio on the University at Albany campus with workshops, a glamour photo-shoot (with bike) and much more. Sunday will close VeloHello with an opportunity to participate in the Saratoga Spa Criterium.
“Biking with the ‘boys’ is challenging and fun, but sisterhood is nurturing and inspiring. I thought it would great to create an event, and hopefully a movement, where women can connect in a powerful way through cycling,” explains Ms. Lukowski. The local cycling community have long recognized this need and have stepped up to assist. “We could not have pulled this off without the help of the Mohawk Hudson Cycling Club, Albany Bicycle Coalition, Team Luna Chix New York, and especially the Capital Bicycle Racing Club,” said Ms. Lukowski. The two women were fortunate to find many sponsors in the bicycle industry that agree and that have offered support. Terry Precision Cycling, The Downtube Cycle Works, Planet Bike, Go Girl, Bern Helmets, and many others are sponsoring VeloHello and the mission of “Girl Meets Bike.” Ms. McConnell, an employee at the Downtube Cycle Works, is amazed at the overwhelming response from her colleagues locally and across the industry. Ms. McConnell said, “We even have an invitation to take VeloHello to Chicago!”
VeloHello, The Capital District’s Girl Meets Bike Event, begins Friday, April 30, 2010, at the Downtube Cycle Works in Albany, New York with a party from 6-9 P.M. The cocktail party will feature product giveaways, a fashion show, a bicycle fit demonstration and several mini-workshops on cycling skills. There is no charge for the Friday evening event. On Saturday, May 1, 2010, The Art Department of the University at Albany will be host to workshops in bicycle mechanics, mountain, and urban biking; and a glamour photo shoot highlighting the participants and their bicycles. Racers from CBRC will be teaching road racing skills and leading a practice ride. A bag lunch and product samples will be provided. The fee for the Saturday events is $30.00; registration is required. Women who are interested in participating in the Saratoga Spa criterium are eligible for a discounted registration fee of $15.00. For more information, please visit www.velohello.com.
Space is limited, so register now!
