Cycling apparel company Endura this week announced a partnership with Virginia-based non-profit Richmond Cycling Corps (RCC). The RCC works with low-income riders from Richmond, Va. to develop bike skills along with personal skills.
Endura donated a full custom race kit to each rider in the RCC’s racing program. The company also provided funds for additions to the RCC’s bike park.
“As a sport, cycling can be a powerful force for positive change. It develops the rider’s confidence. It builds strength and endurance in body and mind. It teaches how to have grit and overcome obstacles. It creates community, purpose, and belonging,” a representative for Endura said in a press release. “But for many, the high costs of bikes and gear have put the sport out of reach.”
That’s where the RCC comes in. The non-profit’s goal is to “break the cycle of poverty for young people through the power of bicycles.” Its various programs — which include race teams, educational classes, outreach initiatives, training camps, and bike rental programs — are steps forward toward that goal.
The RCC also helps riders by providing tutoring, assistance in applying for college and housing, obtaining a driver’s license, and “anything else that might come up.”
RCC riders get the opportunity to race competitively in mountain and road disciplines via the Legacy Cycling program. And over the summer, the Legacy Cycling MTB team attended a pre-season training camp with downhill expert DeAngelo Washington.
If you are interested in supporting the program, you can purchase a replica of the Legacy Cycling team jersey at the link below. All proceeds go directly to the RCC.
