Industry News
International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Hosts 'Mountain Biking Hub' at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market
For Immediate Release
Mark Eller, Communications Director
International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)
info@imba.com
303-545-9011 x 115
Boulder, CO, Jul 28, 2010 -
-- Addition to Endurance Zone helps retailers maximize their appeal to cycling enthusiasts
The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) will host a new addition, the Mountain Biking Hub, in the Endurance Zone at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, to be held at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Aug. 3-6.
“This new show feature will help dealers discover pathways to connect with customers interested in cycling and tap into partnerships with the brands, outfitters and destinations that provide great mountain biking experiences,” said Kenji Haroutunian, Outdoor Retailer show director. “IMBA has been a partner at the show for some years, and we’re glad to host this exciting addition to the Endurance Zone.”
Located alongside Runner's World Magazine in the Endurance Zone, the Mountain Bike Hub will showcase partnership opportunities available to retailers, brands and mountain biking tourism destinations. Attendees can learn about case studies on emerging and established mountain bike destinations, sustainable trail design and mountain bike management practices. They will have the opportunity to check out the latest in cycling technology, with bikes and equipment provided by Specialized and Trek. IMBA leadership will also be on hand, representing 20+ years experience in the cycling and outdoor industries, to field questions and explore partnerships.
Retailers can register to win a trip to Moab, sponsored by Western Spirit, and IMBA cycling jerseys when they stop by the Mountain Biking Hub.
“IMBA has successfully partnered with diverse players in the outdoor recreation field,” said Rich Cook, IMBA's director of development. “Giving back to trails and developing riding destinations is central to IMBA's work. We look forward to the opportunity to strengthen our connection with OR attendees."
Research shows that the majority of mountain bikers in the US also participate in camping, hiking and trail running. Mountain bikers also volunteer close to one million hours of service annually to public lands. In research by the Outdoor Foundation, mountain biking has been identified as one of the top "gateway" activities that introduce youth to a spectrum of outdoor activities.
“There are significant opportunities for retailers, brands and riding destinations to cross promote each other's work,” said Cook. "Cycling is growing, and it's part of the solution to many issues that face us in the industry, such as fighting obesity, building the next generation of environmental stewards and getting youth active in the outdoors."
Retailers interested in meeting with IMBA are strongly encouraged to schedule them in advance with Rich Cook (rich.cook@IMBA.com).
For more information about the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2010 features, please visit outdoorretailer.com. For more information about joining IMBA, please visit www.imba.com
About the International Mountain Bicycling Association
The International Mountain Bicycling Association is a non-profit educational association whose mission is to create, enhance and preserve great trail experiences for mountain bikers worldwide. Since 1988, IMBA has been bringing out the best in mountain biking by encouraging low-impact riding, volunteer trailwork participation, cooperation among different trail user groups, grassroots advocacy and innovative trail management solutions. IMBA's worldwide network includes 35,000 individual members, more than 750 bicycle clubs, more than 160 corporate partners and over 600 bicycle retailers. IMBA's members live in all 50 U.S. states, most Canadian provinces and in 30 other countries. IMBA's headquarters in the United States are located in Boulder, Colorado.
