Sterling Center Cycling Team

Like many of you, I like to promote the sport of cycling.  I get especially enthusiastic about helping young people discover the sport.  For the past several weeks, I’ve been participating in a program to help some underprivileged kids at the Sterling Recreation Center in Greenville, SC discover cycling.  And, it’s been very rewarding for me and the kids I’m riding with.  Last night, I rode about 15 miles with some of them north to Furman University, around the lake on campus and back to the rec center.

The skinny Michelin Pro's on my BMC ProMachine were a little outgunned by the big hibrid rubber, but we didn't do any off-roading this time.

I was joined by several fellow Greenville Spinners members and a couple mentors from Clemson University’s Institute on Family & Neighborhood Life.  I’m really proud of fellow Spinners members Tim Granger, Jessica McKelder and April Wooten-Glenn for their dedication to the program.  They have attended more of the rides than I have, and they are really making a fantastic effort to spend time with these enthusiastic new pedalers.

David Taylor is the man with the passion to make this all happen.  He hooked up with Furman Diversity Leadership Institute, St. Francis Hospital, The Great Escape and the Greenville Spinners to outfit the kids with all they need to start exploring the world from the saddle.  The bikes and helmets are stored at the Sterling Recreation Center to make it easy for the kids to keep everything in one place.  They have been riding at least once a week and they all seem to be enjoying their adventures.  The Swamp Rabbit Trail has been a great way to show them the world of cycling without having to deal with the hazards of riding with the cars on the road.  Overall, the program has been a huge success and David and the kids couldn’t be more pleased.

The totally pro Hincapie Devo Team Giro, Oakley, Northwave, Hincapie Sportswear outfit is a hit with some of the newbies. They aspire to "upgrade."

We had a nice adventure last night and it was the first time that many of the kids had seen the lake at Furman University.  Experiences like that are very memorable for the participant and for the mentor.  I hope you will take a little time out of your busy schedule this month to help someone experience a new adventure.  These are positive memories these kids will take with them wherever they pedal in life.  I guarantee that you will take them with you as well.