LAWRENCE, Kan.—Even in the midst of a global pandemic and uncertain economic times, one thing is certain: more kids on bikes is good for everyone, especially kids! That’s the rationale behind a locally-owned business’s philanthropic effort to help kickstart the formation of a Kansas NICA league.
The National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) was formed in 2009 with the mission of building strong minds, bodies, character, and communities through cycling. Currently, NICA has 31 state and regional leagues and over 11,000 registered volunteer coaches who are working annually with over 22,500 student-athletes from nearly 1,000 high schools and middle schools in the USA. The Kansas chapter was grubstaked by a group of inspired cyclists in Emporia, KS two years ago, but in the interim has been lacking the financial punch to get the league off the ground.
Enter Sunflower Outdoor & Bike Shop and a $100,000 matching grant.
“Things are super crazy right now,” said Sunflower owner Dan Hughes, “but even in the midst of the chaos, we’re looking to the future of cycling in Kansas and we were fortunate enough to convince some generous folks to come along for the ride.” The grant comes in the form of matching funds up to a six-figure cap, with the proviso that Kansas NICA launch an aggressive, statewide, 30-day campaign to maximize the contribution. “Building our youth cycling community takes great partnerships, we’re excited to have just that with Sunflower Outdoor & Bike Shop” said Tina Khan, Kansas League Director.
Interested donors can see their contribution to the league doubled by visiting www.kansasmtb.org and pledging their support before the August 25th deadline.
Sunflower Outdoor & Bike Shop, a locally owned and operated business, was established in 1972 to provide the surrounding community with high quality gear and clothing for outdoor adventures. Located in the heart of Downtown Lawrence, Sunflower Outdoor & Bike Shop is staffed by enthusiasts seven days a week and can be reached at (785) 843-5000 or on the web at www.sunfloweroutdoorandbike.com.
