West Virginia Governor proclaims June as mountain bike month

WV Governor Joe Manchin yesterday announced June as WV Mountain Bike Month outside his office at the Capitol Complex in Charleston, WV. Mountain bike enthusiasts who were able to break away from work were joined by race promoters, some of Clay County's Middle School Mudmasher Mountain Bike Club members, and the WV Mountain Bike Association's officers to witness the event.

"Mountain biking continues to be a key component of our outdoor recreation tourism," Governor Manchin said. "Many individuals have worked hard to help West Virginia earn its reputation as a world-class mountain bike destination... West Virginians take pride in the many endeavours they undertake and certainly it is no different with those who keep our state's reputation at a premium for mountain biking."

Governor Manchin, recently back from a trip to Japan, commented upon the need for young people to engage in a healthy lifestyle, and noted that mountain biking is an excellent activity. The Governor introduced WV Mountain Bike Association's President Matt Marcus, who said a few worlds and thanked the Governor for the state's ongoing support of the sport. Governor Manchin then jumped on a mountain bike for a little spin, and in true mountain bike style, rode up the steps, prompting one aide to mutter "I am SO glad he didn't crash!"