Bike New York announced that national outdoor retailer REI is the presenting sponsor of the 2013 TD Five Boro Bike Tour, America’s largest cycling event. Held annually on the first Sunday in May, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour presented by REI offers 32,000 cyclists a chance to ride 40 miles of traffic-free streets through all five boroughs, introducing riders to a unique perspective of the sights and sounds of New York City.
“We’re excited to have REI as our presenting sponsor this year,” said Ken Podziba, President and CEO of Bike New York. “REI’s purpose to inspire, educate and outfit people for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship is a perfect fit for the TD Five Boro Bike Tour which funds our bicycle education programs.”
In addition to their presenting sponsorship of the TD Five Boro Bike Tour, REI will have a significant presence at Bike Expo New York 2013 (BE NY). Free and open to the public, Bike Expo New York is an annual celebration of the growth of bicycling in New York City and beyond. BE NY 2012 set a record as the most attended inaugural bike expo in the country with more than 43,000 attendees. This year’s expo will take place the two days prior to the TD Five Boro Bike Tour presented by REI – Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4, 2013. Similar to the Tour, proceeds from the BE NY help fund Bike New York’s expanding educational programs.
“The TD Five Boro Bike Tour provides New Yorkers and visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city on two wheels,” said John Sheppard, REI’s director of Outdoor Programs and Outreach. “By partnering with Bike New York, REI can connect our customers with another fun and easy way to enjoy the outdoors, even in an urban setting.”
REI serves outdoor enthusiasts through five stores in the greater Tri-State Area, anchored by its REI SoHo location in the historic Puck Building. In addition to selling the top brands of gear and apparel, the company also offers local REI Outdoor School classes and worldwide REI Adventures trips.
Ron Callahan is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
