(Washington, DC)--Andy Clarke, the current Director of State and Local Advocacy and Deputy Executive Director for the League of American Bicyclists, will succeed Elissa Margolin as Executive Director of the League on April 19. Margolin, who has been with the organization since 1997, decided to resign her position to spend more time with her young children. The transition allows Margolin to lead the League through the 2004 National Bike Summit(R), March 3-5 in Washington, DC (http://www.bikeleague.org).

Clarke said, "I am humbled by the opportunity to serve the League of American Bicyclists as its Executive Director and to follow in Elissa's footsteps. She has positioned the organization to thrive. The opportunities to deliver quality bicycle education programs, improve conditions for bicycling, and be an effective national voice for bicyclists are tremendously exciting."

Andy Clarke has worked to improve conditions for bicycling in a variety of capacities for almost 20 years. Originally from the United Kingdom, his career includes three years as Secretary General of the European Cyclists' Federation, four years as executive Director of the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals, and six years at the Bicycle Federation of America working with advocates and communities to increase opportunities for bicycling. Since joining the League last spring, Clarke has been managing the League's Bicycle Friendly Community CampaignTM (http://www.bicyclefriendlycommunity.org) and spearheading the League's initiative to promote state and local policies that facilitate the creation of bicycle-friendly environments.

"Serving as Executive Director of team Bike League and working in close partnerships with the broader bicycling community have been extremely fulfilling," said Margolin. "The vast talent of our movement leads me to the conclusion that a bicycle-friendly America is indeed within our grasp. And I can think of no better talent than Andy Clarke to serve as the next Executive Director of the League. His competency and vision are second to none."

Chris Kegel, President of the League and owner of five Wheel & Sprocket bicycle shops in Wisconsin, said, "Elissa has led the League through an extraordinary period of growth in programs, budget and strategic alliances. She will be missed. However, Andy Clarke is hands-down our ideal successor, who can build on the momentum Elissa created, and lead the League to even greater success in building a bicycle-friendly America."

The League of American Bicyclists promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation, and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America. The League represents the interests of 41.4 million American cyclists, including its 300,000 members and affiliates. For more information or to support the League, visit www.bikeleague.org and www.bicyclefriendlycommunity.org