Spring Break
Drexel sponsors Philly bike race
By: Josh Kurtz
Issue date: 6/8/07 Section: News
Originally published: 6/8/07 at 4:41 AM EST
Last update: 6/8/07 at 4:41 AM EST
Originally published: 6/8/07 at 4:41 AM EST
Last update: 6/8/07 at 4:41 AM EST
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According to Brian Rossiter of the Drexel News Bureau, race officials approached Drexel's Office of Government and Community Relations (OGCR) about serving as the official college sponsor for the bicycle race. Brian Keech, Vice President of the OGCR, worked with Commerce Bank to determine Drexel's role in the race. Student Life and University Relations helped organize Drexel's role in the race as well.
As a sponsor, Drexel will supply volunteers who will be stationed throughout the race as marshals. Drexel will also have corporate tents for donor relations stationed around the racecourse, according to Dean of Students David Ruth. Ruth said that Drexel's biggest responsibility will be providing volunteers who are located throughout the course.
According to Rossiter, Drexel's role in the race is an example of the University's commitment to civic engagement. Over 100 Drexel students have volunteered as marshals for the race. Jessica Grace, Assistant Director of Commuter Student Programs and Services organized the volunteer staff for the race.
This year marks the first time Drexel has served as a sponsor for the race. The race features a different college sponsor each year.
Drexel held a Meet the Riders event in the area next to the Main Building June 5. Keech and Rebecca Dzara, assistant director of Campus Activities, organized the event, which was held to help promote the race and cycling in general to Drexel.
The Drexel cycling team was a major part of the event. Drexel and Penn hold the largest collegiate bicycle race in the nation. The second annual race took place this March along Fairmount Park and West River Drive, according to Shannon Kurtas, a senior majoring in Computer Engineering and a member of Drexel's cycling team.
Kurtas said the Drexel cycling team will be helping with the race this weekend. The team will be assisting at events that will lead up to the race during the weekend. Kurtas mentioned the Family Fun event as one part of the weekend that will feature the Drexel cycling team.
