This year for summer vacation, middle- and high school-age youth can learn bicycle safety, skills and basic mechanics in a safe outdoor environment through the Reno Bike Project’s Major Taylor Summer Ride Club Day Camps. Two sessions are available based on age group: the first for 15- to 18-year-olds from July 18-22, the next for 11- to 14-year-olds from August 1-5. Each day begins at 9 a.m. and runs to noon—except for the final day of the week, which goes until 2 p.m.—and bicycles are provided by RBP to students.
Since 2013, these camps have been a resource for area pre-teens and teens to learn about safe cycling skills while also building their confidence and knowledge. Daily sessions are held at various outdoor locales throughout the Truckee Meadows, safely teaching different skill sets on both mountain and road bikes, and encouraging physical activity during school breaks.
Experienced cycling instructors teach students bicycle handling, safe riding habits, riding preparedness, rules of the road and even essential mechanical knowledge, with lessons based on their individual skill levels. Interspersed instruction on other topics such as road laws, health and wellness, setting and meeting goals, the environmental benefits of cycling and optimal riding attire also supplement morning rides.
Reno Bike Project’s cycling program—delivered as physical education in schools in addition to the summer day camps—is named for an inspiring cyclist named Marshall “Major” Taylor, the first African-American cyclist to become World Champion in 1899. During his lifetime, he was only the second African-American to win a world championship in any sport, and proceeded to achieve a slew of world records in the face of the era’s heavy racism.
“After seeing the success of Major Taylor clubs in cities across the country, we decided it was time to bring one to northern Nevada,” states Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Reno Bike Project, Noah Silverman. “We want to build lifelong, active cyclists through this program, and know that process begins with the basics taught in a fun and supportive environment.”
On the final day of each session, instructors take their class on a long ride to a select destination and celebrate their progress with a lunch outing. Students are also encouraged to continue their newly established cycling involvement and education with a free yearlong membership to the Reno Bike Project.
The five-day summer sessions cost $95 per participant, and reduced-tuition scholarships are available. For more information or to register, visit RenoBikeProject.org or call 775-323-4488.
