News Release
July 1, 2015
Contact: Jim Smith
(904) 624-0036
July 16, 2015 1:00 a.m.
The North Florida Bicycle Club invites cyclists of all abilities to the Endless Summer Watermelon Ride on Amelia Island on Sunday, Sept. 14. Cyclists will ride along the ocean on scenic Amelia Island, through historic, tree lined Fernandina Beach, and south to the beautiful Talbot Islands State Parks and the St. John’s River beyond. The ride will offer many of the 800 expected participants an opportunity to train for and achieve the ultimate goal in cycling: “the century,” a ride of 100 miles in one day. For tips on cycling a century, go the Endless Summer Watermelon Ride Facebook page.
This supported ride includes snacks, rest stops, a catered lunch, mechanical support, motorcycle escorts, roving support teams and ice cold watermelon. Routes are available at 21, 32, 55, 75 and 100 miles. Area hotels are teaming up with the ride to offer special weekend packages. Visit www.NFBC.us for hotel packages, ride pictures and more info.
Online registration is available through Sept. 9. Go to www.nfbc.us to register.
The rides begin and end at the Atlantic Recreation Center, 2600 Atlantic Avenue, which is near the entrance to Fort Clinch. This signature biking event will demonstrate why Fernandina Beach was designated a 2013 bronze level award by the League of American Bicyclists.
Hosted by the North Florida Bicycle Club and its sponsors, the event is partnering with local hotels and businesses to provide discounts for the weekend’s events. See www.nfbc.us for more information or contact ride director Jim Smith at [email protected].
Early packet pick-up will be on Saturday, Sept. 13 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at the Atlantic Recreation Center. Riders are encouraged to take advantage of this early sign-in opportunity to avoid crowds the day of the event. Doors open at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday morning. Following a safety briefing, the 100-mile ride starts at 7:45 and others will follow at 10 minutes intervals.
Online registration at www.nfbc.us is $40 plus tax for NFBC members and $55 plus tax for non-members through September 9. Late registration will be $65 plus tax and will be available only at the Atlantic Recreation Center on Sept. 13 and 14.
The ride benefits charities and a bicycle safety campaign supported by the North Florida Bicycle Club. The club sponsors several weekly rides for those interested in developing biking skills, socializing with other cyclists and exploring new bike routes.