FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ron Drynan, HydroFest Organizer
e-mail: Info@HumanPoweredBoats.com
Hartland, Michigan (June 7th, 2000) Excitement is building with
just ten days remaining before the Hartland HydroFest at Waldenwoods Resort in
Hartland, Michigan on Saturday, June 17th.
Says Ron Drynan, organizer of the event, "The fact that this is the largest
event of its kind in North America and a first-ever for Michigan has created a
snowball effect. As more boaters signed on, more wanted to make sure they
could be there. Between the home-builders and a dozen or so manufacturers,
we'll have more than 30 boats from all over the U.S. and Canada, representing almost every type of water cycle design you can imagine. These are not
plain kayaks and canoes or paddleboats, they're amazingly fast and agile boats
utilizing the latest in carbon fiber, kevlar, fiberglass, bicycle components,
and propeller technology. There are even hydrofoils capable of sustained
'flight' under pedal power alone."
By combining human powered boat racing with free admission and free test-rides
for the public, the HydroFest will appeal to anyone interested in exploring a
very different kind of recreational water sport. Cyclists tired of
fighting traffic, fisherman looking for a better way to navigate the waterways,
joggers and exercisers wanting better scenery for work-outs, and outdoors
enthusiasts wanting to explore nature quietly and without disturbing the
environment are thrilled to discover these unique and innovative boats.
Says John Howard of HydroCycles, Inc., producer of the Wave Walker, "I
firmly believe that water cycling is the best way to experience the enjoyment of
being out on the water. Water cycling offers freedom, exercise and
relaxation." Mr. Howard will be competing at the HydroFest in his new
24' outrigger pedal-boat prototype, the same boat he'll use for a world-record
attempt in Wisconsin later this summer. As a former Olympic cyclist,
IronMan winner, accomplished endurance athlete, and converted water cyclist,
he's ready to set the bar high.
The Hartland HydroFest, human powered boat racing event and demo day will be
held at Waldenwoods Resort (M-59 at U.S.-23) on Saturday, June 17th from
9:00a.m. through 4:00p.m.. The racing is sanctioned by the American
Canoe Association, and the event will be conducted in the tradition of the International
Human Powered Vehicle Association.
Admission is free, parking is free, and spectators of all ages are invited to
come by the beach and try out the boats.
