For Immediate Release: June 16, 2005

Choice Hotels Offers Discount to Traveling Equestrians

Lexington, Ky., (June 17, 2005) – USRider members now get even more for their money as members of the unique roadside assistance program created especially for equestrians. Choice Hotels International® has teamed up with USRider through its Winner’s Circle Advantage Member Benefits Program to offer a special members-only discount on lodging.

The USRider Equestrian Motor Plan provides its members with roadside assistance and towing services along with other travel-related benefits tailored to aid those who travel with horses.

Through its Winner’s Circle Advantage program, USRider offers exclusive money-saving discounts from nationally recognized equine retailers. Members can enjoy special deals on items for horse, rider and enthusiast, including equestrian gifts, jewelry, art, tack, apparel, vet supplies, services, and more.

In addition to the Winner’s Circle discount, Choice Hotels will make a donation to the Leg-Up Annual Giving Fund for each room rented under this program. Each year USRider donates a portion of its profits to qualified, worthy organizations that provide emergency equine response through its Leg-Up Fund. The donations provide funding for Large Animal Rescue awareness and training initiatives.

"It is a privilege to work with Choice Hotels, as they are as passionate about the hotel business as we are about our motor plan," said Mark Cole, managing member for USRider.

"One of our priorities at Choice Hotels is giving back to the communities we serve," said Donald Crawford, director of sports marketing for Choice Hotels International. "Thanks to a number of partnerships, the sports community tops that list. We’re excited to make USRider members the latest addition to our community. We hope USRider members will see the benefit in staying with us—and become loyal Choice guests—not just because of the discounts and great amenities offered by our hotels, but also because of our commitment to turn their stays into donations for the Leg-Up Annual Giving Fund, a charity close to their heart."

Choice Hotels International® is the latest corporation to join the Winner’s Circle Advantage program and offers USRider members a discount on lodging. Choice Hotels International® is one of the largest and most successful lodging franchisors in the world. Built on the foundation of the venerable Quality Inn® chain – a pioneer in consistent mid-priced lodging – Choice Hotels® today is the worldwide franchisor of Comfort Inn®, Comfort Suites®, Quality®, Sleep Inn®, Clarion®, MainStay Suites®, Econo Lodge®, and Rodeway Inn® brand hotels.

"This is a truly a very exciting benefit for our members. Choice Hotels is one of the largest and most successful hoteliers in the world," said Cole. "With over 5,000 properties in different segments of the industry, they have a choice for everyone."

With an annual fee comparable to that of other roadside assistance programs, USRider offers the typical flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lock-out services, plus benefits designed with horse owners in mind, including towing and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with horses, emergency stabling, veterinary referrals and more.

For more information about USRider, visit www.usrider.org or call 1-800-844-1409.

GO BACK