The Coalition for Buzzards Bay Announces Second Annual Watershed Ride

Cyclists to Help Create Awareness of Connection between Land and Bay

For Immediate Release

August 6, 2008

CONTACT:

Kristin Thoms

The Coalition for Buzzards Bay

(508) 999-6363, ext. 207

NEW BEDFORD, MA—The Coalition for Buzzards Bay is excited to announce the Second Annual Watershed Ride on Sunday, October 5. Last year’s inaugural Ride, which drew 41 adventurous cyclists, raised more than $23,000 to
support the programs of the Coalition. One cyclist described it as “a beautiful route and well-organized event with a fabulous destination and great food.”

The 75-mile route will begin at Horseneck Beach in Westport, taking cyclists through farmland, coastal villages, New Bedford’s waterfront, cranberry bogs and along the back roads of Cape Cod, ending in Woods Hole. Perfectly timed to take advantage of the spectacular autumn foliage, the cools days of early fall, and the quiet off-season roads, the Ride is one of the best outdoor events of the season.

“We were extremely pleased that the Ride was a terrific success last year as the event raises critical funds to support our programs and also increases awareness of the importance of our watershed lands to the Bay’s health. These funds are used to support our efforts to protect the watershed, which is so important to the health of our Bay,” said Coalition President Mark Rasmussen.

The Watershed Ride is a fully-supported event with rest stops, lunch at Eastover Farms in Rochester, on-the-road bike mechanics and first aid. The event will culminate in a celebration at the Finish Line in Woods Hole with food, drinks and music.

Online registration is open and early registrants can reserve a limited edition Watershed Ride jersey. Each cyclist is required to raise a minimum of $300 in addition to a $60 registration fee to participate in the Ride. To help cyclists with their fundraising, the Coalition will host a free seminar on Wednesday, September 10 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. called, “Fear of Fundraising: How to Raise Money in a Lousy Economy.” Those interested should reserve a spot by September 8 by e-mailing Donna Cobert at cobert@savebuzzardsbay.org or calling 508-999-6363 ext. 209.

Visit the Coalition website for additional ride details and to register, call The Coalition for Buzzards Bay at 508-999-6363, ext. 207. Registration closes Thursday, October 2 at 6 p.m.

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The Coalition for Buzzards Bay is a private, non-profit membership organization dedicated to the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of Buzzards Bay and its watershed. The organization works to improve the health of the Bay ecosystem for all through education, conservation, research and advocacy and is supported by more than 5,000 members