In February 2021, Trek introduced the Pathfinders Scholarship to bring greater diversity, equity, and inclusion to youth mountain biking by providing people of color with the bikes, gear, and resources they need to overcome historical barriers to the sport.
This scholarship was awarded last season to student athletes from Urban Promise Wilmington , a school serving young people in the city of Wilmington.
We were stoked to have young people from UP be a part of the structure, learning process and team building skills which NICA and the Delaware Dirt Destroyers had to offer. Mountain Biking was a completely new challenge for them. Although a bit shy at first, Destiny, Joel, Ethan and Carlin quickly grew their skills all while showing determination, enthusiasm, humility and a positive attitude. As the season progressed we saw them come out of their shell, smile, laugh and develop camaraderie with the coaches and other athletes. Most noticeably though was the maturity and respect that they showed towards others and themselves.
We also had the added bonus of some of the the staff and teachers of UP joining us as coaches whom were also new to the sport. Thank you UP coaches for being present, challenging yourselves and mentoring our student athletes.
Cycling is for Everyone. If there are any obstacles that would prevent someone, especially a young person from riding, we all should do whatever we can to change that.