The following was submitted by Martin Torresquintero of the city parks department:
The Outdoor Adventure Program, in conjunction with the Connecticut Cycling Advancement Program. has launched the High School MT Biking Teams.
This past Sunday teams from New Horizons and Common Ground High School participated in their first-ever mountain bike competition, at the Kenda Cup Fat Tire Classic at Winding trails in Farmington. Not only they did all well and finished a 5 mile grueling course, but now are looking forward to the next completion in May 21, The West Rock Super Prestige, to be held at the West Rock Nature Center. Noteworthy is the fact that all of the participants are receiving scholarships for training provided by the CCAP; and the Outdoor Adventure Program has provided all bikes, helmets, gloves, equipment and transportation. Each team has also been supported by teachers and faculty in each school.
Furthermore, we got a grant that allowed us to get cycling jerseys and new Raleigh mountain bikes for one of the teams. And, Bikes For Kids also donated reconditioned mountain bikes for another team. Needless to say, there is no cost for New Haven kids in this program, which is sustained mainly by donations, and funds collected on behalf of Bike New Haven during cycling events such as Rock to Rock.
If you would like to know more about this program, start a team at your school in New Haven, or donate to the cause please contact the Outdoor Adventure Coordinator at mtorresq@newhavenct.net or (203)946‑6768. We gladly take cash donations of any denomination, and suitable cycling gear.