
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, September 2, 1993                   TAG: 9309020193
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-2   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: Michael Stowe
DATELINE: BLACKSBURG                                LENGTH: Short

BLACKSBURG STILL IN TOUR DU PONT RUNNING

An effort by Roanoke officials to bring the 1994 Tour Du Pont to the Star City shouldn't hurt Blacksburg's chances of luring the bike race back to Blacksburg next year, said Mike Matzuk.

Matzuk, owner of East Coasters Cycling and Fitness was instrumental in helping Blacksburg attract and plan for the 1993 Tour Du Pont when the town was host for the race stage that ended in Beech Mountain, N.C.

Matzuk said he's confident both Blacksburg and Roanoke will play host to America's most prestigious cycling event.

"It's two positives as far as I can see," he said.

Also a member of Blacksburg's sidewalks and bikeways committee, Matzuk said Tour DuPont organizers were impressed with the enthusiasm and organization shown by the town last year.

"We're definitely on the right track," he said. "Though nothing's set in stone."

The route of next year's tour slated for May 5-15 is expected to be announced Sept. 15.

Matzuk said he expects Blacksburg will once again serve as a stage starting point.

by CNB