COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado – Bowie State University in Maryland, Langston University in Oklahoma, and Clinton College in South Carolina have each been awarded grants to establish and support their collegiate cycling programs by USA Cycling supported by EF Pro Cycling and Cannondale. This initiative aims to foster growth within the sport of cycling within the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) communities.
“We are excited to support these universities in their efforts to promote cycling and provide opportunities for students. This grant program is a significant step towards inclusivity and expanding access to cycling at the collegiate level,” said Suzy Sanchez, Director of DEI and Membership Programs at USA Cycling.
“Everyone should have access to cycling. Our aim is to increase diversity and grow participation in the sport. The goal is to build long-lasting programs for the students at these HBCUs and TCUs to experience the benefits of cycling as well as foster inclusivity, community, and adventure,” said Jonathan Geran, Director of Sports Marketing at Cannondale.
Each institution will be supported over a period of three years with a total of $30,000 in grant support.
In addition to the grant support, schools will have the opportunity to participate in a virtual race series hosted by the Cyclone Racing League. This series is specifically designed to bring together HBCU students and alumni, fostering a sense of community and competition. The virtual format allows for broad participation, enabling racers to gain experience and improve fitness in an inclusive and accessible environment.
“We believe that indoor virtual cycling and the latest technology platforms offer a great way to bring new HBCU and TCU racers to the sport. Cycling experience and fitness can be gained without the inhibitions or anxiety associated with what can be often perceived as a very exclusive sport,” said Dr. Mark Janas, Chief Technology Officer at Cyclone Racing League.
“The creation of the CRL establishes a powerful engine of opportunity for greater HBCU involvement in the sport of cycling. In time, this will grow where we will be not only racing indoors but fielding teams across multiple HBCUs outdoors and across cycling disciplines. Our efforts will help to start to move the needle on diversity and inclusion in cycling,” added Milt Sharp, Race Director at Cyclone Racing League.
“We are excited about expanding our biking program and developing the Langston University Cycling Club. The support from USA Cycling, Cannondale, and EF Pro Cycling will position our team to not only compete but excel in races. Moreover, this provides another avenue for our students to maintain active lifestyles. We are grateful for this opportunity. See you at the finish line!” stated LUCC coach Desmond Delk.
“We are excited to bring this innovative program to Bowie State University and to join forces with Saint Augustine’s University to create lasting opportunities for our students. Our cycling team will serve as a model for other HBCUs looking to expand their athletic programs. The cycling team will also participate in local and national events, showcasing the talent and dedication of HBCU student athletes via Bowie State University,” said Finote Girmay Weldemariam, Bowie State University Cycling Team President.
“To be part of a program that gives students the opportunity to ride and race bikes is something we’re immensely proud of. Our hope is that riding will become part of their daily routines – not just while they’re in school but for the rest of their lives. These students are ambassadors for cycling. They are planting the seeds to promote growth of cycling for years to come,” said Jonathan Vaughters, CEO of EF Pro Cycling.
For more information about the HBCU/TCU Grant Program, visit USA Cycling.
