Contact: Nina Sveinson, Nemer Fieger, 952-278-3112, nsveinson@nemerfieger.com
Molly Steinke, Nemer Fieger, 612-309-1677, molly@nemerfieger.com

Minneapolis (March 21, 2016) --- Cyclists from around the World will be arriving in Minnesota this June for the 17th annual North Star Bicycle Festival. More than 300 of the best pro and elite cyclists in North America are expected to participate in the seven-day Festival which will be held in six host cities around central Minnesota.

The North Star Bicycle Festival kicks off with the Fixed Gear Classic June 10 and 11 at the National Sports Center Velodrome in Blaine. The Festival continues from June 15 - 19 with the North Star Grand Prix, a five-day, six-stage race held in cities around east central Minnesota that is part of USA Cycling’s prestigious national racing calendar.
The host cities are:
 Saint Paul Wednesday, June 15
 Cannon Falls Thursday, June 16
 Uptown Friday, June 17
 North Mankato Saturday, June 18
 Stillwater Sunday, June 19

This year marks the return of women’s racing to the North Star Grand Prix. Notable female cyclists from around the world, including Olympic, World and National champions, are expected to compete.

A variety of spectator activities will take place during the festival, each with the goal of increasing interest in the world of cycling for avid athletes, everyday cyclists, and community members, including:
 The Greg Lemond CEO Rides for Kids, a ride created by three-time winner of the Tour de France that benefits the Special Olympics;
 The free Park Dental Tour de Kids (12 and under) presented by Shimano Youth Series at each location of the North Star Grand Prix throughout the week;
 Bike expos, which include stunt rider shows and interactive programming
 Live music, food trucks and beer gardens at many of the venues

The 2016 North Star Bike Festival is presented by North Memorial Health Care.
For more on the North Star Bicycle Festival 2016, please visit northstarbicyclefestival.com.
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