The Bike Library:
The cost barrier to step into mountain biking is real, we all know it. The number one goal of this program is how can we get more kids on bikes. It began as a pitch offering bikes from our inventory, then the idea of involving Yeti, then more...
....Eventually, year one of the Bike Library program came together to involve 15 Yeti ARC carbon hardtails, 6D Helmets, Hestra Gloves, Optic Nerve Sunglasses, & VCGraphix coming together to set these amazing riders up for success. Nominated athletes were given their Yeti to train and race on for the season. We hosted two options for bike pick up at our TPC headquarters in Thornton CO and an available shipping option for riders who couldn't make the drive.
Fundraising:
How could we do more? Centered around the timing of the MTB World Cup, instead of a sale on bikes, we ran a promotion where every bike sold for a week donated $150 to the Colorado High School League. We also timed this perfectly with Youth Gives Day, which matched our contribution. In total, this created a $31,200 donation to the League.
Supporting Events:
In addition to the Library and Fundraising efforts, we had such a good time showing up on race weekends. We cheered, high-fived, test road each of the courses, gave away a ton of merch, and even spent the first weekend tatting kids up! Each race had a spirit theme for teams to compete for who could embrace it the best and sponsors like us got to be the judges.
Races we attended:
Race Weekend 1: Frisco - Theme Temporary Tattoos
Race Weekend 2: Steamboat Springs - Theme Super Hero's
Race Weekend 3: Glenwood Springs - Theme Disco
Race Weekend 4: Canon City - Theme Rodeo
Race Weekend 5: State Champs in Glenwood Springs - Theme Spooky Beach Party
These races are organized and run better than many top tier cycling events we've been to. The League shows these high school athletes the first class treatment they deserve.
The athleticism, camaraderie, and sportsmanship from these cyclists is impressive. The future looks bright for mountain bikes and we're honored to be playing even such a small role.
The Future:
We're strong believers of the idea that having cycling as part of your life enhances health, social well-being, and offers alternative transportation options. In 2027 our plan is to continue working with Yeti and expand the program to a total of 22 bikes. The more we can reduce the barrier for kids to get into mountain biking the better. We plan to run more fundraising promotions to help support the league further.
A massive thank you to the Colorado High School Cycling League for everything you do to support youth cycling and letting us be involved.
See you next season!
- The Pro's Closet Team
