Please let us know if this is something GHORBA should pursue.


----- Forwarded by Chris Case/TEPPCO on 06/14/2001 07:23 AM -----

Pete Webber
<pete@... To:
m> cc:
Subject: IMBA and Sprockids Partner
to Expand Innovative Kid ıs
06/13/2001 Mountain Biking Program
05:43 PM





June 13, 2001
For Immediate Release
Contact Judd de Vall, IMBA Sprockids coordinator
judd@..., 303-545-9011

IMBA and Sprockids Partner to Expand Innovative Kid's Mountain Biking
Program

IMBA and Sprockids are working together to get more kids on bikes. IMBA has
become the U.S. coordinating agency for the Sprockids program ­ a
time-tested, kid's mountain biking curriculum that was developed by Doug
Detwiller in British Columbia, Canada. IMBA is now responsible for all
marketing, distribution and administration of the program in the U.S. The
organizations hope to develop IMBA Sprockids programs worldwide in the
years
to come.

The Sprockids program, which is designed for schools, mountain bike clubs
and youth organizations, is the most comprehensive resource available to
develop a thriving kid's mountain bike program. IMBA Sprockids materials
include an Instructional Emphasis guide, a Program Manual and 10 weeks of
Lesson Plans covering program development, bike maintenance, course design,
fitness and nutrition, riding skills, bike accessories and bike safety. The
package also includes numerous forms, awards and checklists for organizing
events, fun rides and races. It is available directly from IMBA for $75.

The IMBA Sprockids partnership is made possible by the generosity of Ben &
Jerry's ice cream and Pearl Izumi performance apparel. Ben & Jerry's is
donating all proceeds from the sale of its Pearl Izumi cycling jersey to
support the program. The jerseys are available everywhere that Pearl Izumi
products are sold.

"Our goal is to get kids on bikes and teach them the skills they need to
achieve their dreams while being responsible cyclists," said Judd de Vall,
IMBA Sprockids coordinator. "The Sprockids program makes a perfect addition
to IMBA's existing advocacy programs by providing communities with another
way to support mountain biking and trail access."

Detwiller, the founder of the Sprockids program, will continue as the
Sprockids program director. In addition, he will act as IMBA's Sprockids
education coordinator, helping clubs to develop their local programs and
educational goals. During the last decade, Detwiller has introduced
Sprockids to more than 300 schools throughout North America, the UK, New
Zealand and Australia.

"I'm very pleased with the partnership we have formed," said Detwiller. "We
have created a framework that will lead to the positive growth of the
Sprockids program. In the long run, this will benefit our communities, our
environment and our world."

In 2001, IMBA will establish three IMBA Sprockids pilot programs in the
U.S.
The pilots will help improve Sprockids educational materials and enhance
the
publicity, branding and recognition of the program. Pilot sites will be
announced soon.

For more information on the IMBA Sprockids program or to start an program
in
your area, please contact Judd de Vall, IMBA Sprockids Coordinator
judd@...

end

--
Pete Webber­Membership & Communications Director
International Mountain Bicycling Association
PO Box 7578, Boulder CO 80306
ph: 303-545-9011 x 112, fax: 303-545-9026
email: pete@..., web: http://www.imba.com