Media Release
Contact: Jim Smith (904) 624-0036
August 22, 2015 11:00 a.m.
Tour Book for Endless Summer Watermelon Ride A fun and informative Tour Book will be provided for riders on the 20-, 32- and 55-mile routes of the Endless Summer Watermelon Ride on Sunday, Sept. 13, on Amelia Island. Ride registrants can download the PDF to their smart phones and stop along the way to enjoy the history and scenery of Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, Big and Little Talbot islands and Fort George Island. Highlights from the Tour Book include the rich history of the area from era of the Timucua Indians through the Spanish and English settlers, including the shrimping industry and historic downtown Fernandina Beach.
The beautiful natural setting of the islands is also covered with a number of recommended stops to see wildlife and vistas. Go to <http://www.nfbc.us> www.nfbc.us to register for the ride and download the tour book. More than 800 cyclists are expected to enjoy the spectacular Endless Summer Watermelon Ride on Amelia Island on Sunday, Sept. 13. The popular event takes riders through Fernandina Beach’s magnificent historic neighborhoods, along scenic Atlantic coastal highways and through natural settings of nearby barrier islands. Cyclists of all levels can choose routes of 21, 32, 55, 75 or 100 miles.
Riders will be provided with pre-ride snacks, eight rest stops, detailed maps, mechanical support, motorcycle escorts and a post-ride barbeque lunch. And plenty of delicious watermelon. Online registration is available through Sept. 9. Go to <http://www.nfbc.us> www.nfbc.us to register. The rides begin and end at the Atlantic Recreation Center, 2600 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, FL.
This signature biking event will demonstrate why Fernandina Beach was recognized with 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 <http://www.nfbc.us> www.nfbc.us for more information or contact ride director Jim Smith at <mailto:[email protected]> [email protected].
Early packet pick-up will be on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 1:30 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 Sept. 9. Late registration will be $65 plus tax and will be available only at the Atlantic Recreation Center on Sept. 13 and 14. A portion of each registration fee helps fund the North Florida Bicycle Club’s Pedaling for Safety bicycle safety campaign in north Florida. The club sponsors several weekly rides for those interested in developing biking skills, socializing with other cyclists and exploring new bike routes.