Associated Industries and UnitedHealthcare, “Gold Wheel” co-sponsors for Bike to Work Week and Spokane ikes, have arranged to bring a member of the world-class UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling team — Washingtonian Morgan Schmitt — to Bike to Work Week, Monday, May 16th. Schmitt will be welcomed by Mayor Mary Verner at the Bike to Work Week Pancake Breakfast Kickoff event, at Riverfront Park 7:00am, in the Gondola Meadows area. Schmitt, who is from Roslyn, will be available to sign autographs at the UnitedHealthcare/Associated Industries table (and no doubt eat a pancake or two, since a pro cyclist needs around 10,000 calories a day).

Schmitt will make a second appearance at 10:00am, at the Central Y, the new downtown branch of the YMCA of the Inland Northwest, located at 930 N. Monroe, across from the Arena. “I know the youngsters will be excited to have this impressive athlete visit with them,” says Associated Industries President/CEO Jim DeWalt, who arranged with UnitedHealthcare – the association’s health care benefits partner – to bring the UnitedHealthcare pro cyclist to Spokane.

According to DeWalt, Schmitt plans to speak to the kids on the importance of good nutrition and exercise, as well as talk about bike safety. “He will tell the kids what it takes to be a professional athlete,” DeWalt adds, “the hard work, practice and healthy eating habits that have paid off for them.” In addition, the UnitedHealthcare Team is bringing a few surprises for the youngsters, he says. While DeWalt won’t tip off what that might be, he adds, “You can be sure, it has something to do with cycling, healthy exercise and kids’ safety.”

The UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team has been on the Podium six times thus far in 2011, and in the top ten teams 21 times. Their race calendar takes them worldwide, most recently to races in Argentina, Malaysia, Italy and Belgium. In May, they are back in the US, when many of the team will participate in the “Tour of California” Race.
Schmitt, born in Roslyn, Washington, is currently a Seattle resident. He’s been racing for nine years, including four years as a pro.

Associated Industries (A.I.) is an employers’ association founded in 1910 by Members, for Members. A.I. responds to meet the needs of our Members with access to innovative business resources, including health, dental, vision and other benefits plans offered through our partner, UnitedHealthcare. Today, approximately 600 organizations in Washington and Idaho are members of Associated Industries. Search Associated Industries’ website for helpful information about A.I.’s services and resources. Or become a Member and start enjoying membership benefits today!