The promoters of the Trans-Sylvania Epic 5-day mountain bike stage race have given me an opportunity to affordably participate while contributing to the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League. This race will be the highlight of my personal summer racing, but more importantly, the fundraising will help provide opportunities for getting more kids involved with mountain bike racing.
To say that mountain biking has had an impact on me would be an understatement. I was fortunate to get into mountain bike racing at 12 years old, and today as a junior Environmental Science major at Appalachian State University, I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities cycling has provided me. Cycling has instilled in me a strong work ethic, developed my confidence on and off the trail, fostered my love for the outdoors, and shown me the importance of community. However, not all kids that enjoy riding bikes have the chances that I had. Without the support of my parents, the Inland Construction/Back To Dirt development team that I joined as a teenager, and the NC cycling community, I wouldn’t have had the resources to participate in this amazing sport. NICA and the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League are helping to provide these opportunities for kids who otherwise would not have the resources to participate.
Your donation to my Trans-Sylvania Epic fundraiser will do two things: allow me to continue my goals of excelling in mountain bike racing with an incredible adventure, and also help me contribute to the future of mountain biking through the support of the PA Interscholastic Cycling League. Please follow my progress on my blog and on Instagram @byronrice.
Thank you,
Byron Rice
The PA League and all other NICA Leagues share 5 Core Principles:
Inclusivity
Equality
Strong Body
Strong Mind
Strong Character
These are the key elements to our effort. This league is open to any student in 6th-12th grade. Everyone is welcome to take part. Everyone counts. No one "sits the bench."
Our primary focus is for our participants to experience the fun of this sport and the benefits it conveys to mind, body and character for life. Additionally, community service through trail advocacy will be a key component of the PA League effort state-wide.
The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League is a non-profit 501(c)3 NICA Project League. The league as one of the largest first year leagues in NICA history with close to 300 riders participating in our first season. Our goal is to provide fun, safe, and competitive mountain biking opportunities for middle & high school students in the Commonwealth. The league also provides structured training programs for prospective coaches, riders, and school officials.
With the cooperation of our staff, volunteers, partners, sponsors, and you we will continue to grow and expand this educational, character building, and fun mountain bike experience throughout our state.
The Outdoor Experience Organization and Trans-Sylvania Epic are proud to support the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League. Net proceeds from the fundraising effort will be donated to the PA League by the OEO.