Chamber Vision May 2014 | Page 8

8 May 2014 Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau LOOKING FOWARD TO THE DIRTY KANZA With the 2014 edition of Dirty Kanza now just four weeks away, the entire staff of Dirty Kanza Promotions is hard at work making final preparations. What began in 2006 as just a fun little bike race, has grown to become a truly world-class event. With 750 riders registered for the Dirty Kanza 200, and another 450 registered for the 100-mile DK Half Pint, this year’s field of riders will be our largest ever. These 1,200 riders represent 44 US States and 7 foreign countries. (Australia, Canada, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, Hong Kong and Norway.) In addition, we anticipate another 150-200 riders to participate in the DK Lite Fun Ride, and another 150 kids to take part in the Kid’s Races. That’s quite a growth from our 34 riders in 2006! The Dirty Kanza weekend will kick off Thursday evening with a leisure group ride, hosted by Emporia’s Human Power Company. Friday’s numerous activities are highlighted by the Pre-Race Palooza Dinner. Hosted by the Emporia Farmers’ Market, this dinner will feature a “Meet & Greet the DK Riders” session, during which Emporia citizens will have an opportunity to meet riders who are featured on the 2014 DK Trading Cards. Come enjoy a great meal, and have your favorite DK Rider sign your trading card.