Priority Health Classic seeks volunteers

The public will have a chance to get behind the scenes of one of the US's up and coming criteriums next month. Event officials have announced a number of volunteer opportunities for the first annual Priority Health Grand Cycling Classic taking place on Saturday, September 8 in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The Priority Health Grand Cycling Classic will feature some of the nation's top elite athletes competing on a 1.2 kilometre circuit around Grand Rapids for $20,000 in prize money. Teams such as Priority Health, Colavita, Rock Racing, Health Net, Navigators, Kelly Benefits Strategies and Jelly Belly have all confirmed participation in the event which is part of the more general 'Celebration on the Grand' activities. However, plenty of manpower is needed to pull off a top criterium.

"We have already had a number of volunteers sign up to help with the event," says promoter Rob Laybourn. "But we are hoping to involve as many community members as possible in the unique opportunities associated with volunteering for the Priority Health Grand Cycling Classic.

"Course marshals, rider registration co-ordinators and a set-up/tear down crew are just a few of the areas available where volunteer assistance is required." Volunteers can access more information and sign up to assist with the Priority Health Grand Cycling Classic by visiting www.priorityhealthclassic.com. Volunteers will receive a 2007 commemorative t-shirt for their involvement. On-line participant registration for all events, including the free Helen DeVos Children's Hospital Kids Race, is also available at www.priorityhealthclassic.com.