The Annual Gala & Awards Dinner celebrates Greater Philadelphia’s agents of change in the bicycling community, from youth athletes and their supporters to community organizers and advocates. The BCYC Award celebrates individuals whose work engages the next generation of cyclists while broadening the diversity of the sport. The BCYC Athlete of the Year Award is given to an outstanding youth athlete who is nominated by coaches, site support, and/or BCYC staff for their hard work on and off the bike.
This year, the BCYC Award will be presented to local legend and master craftsman, Stephen Bilenky. Stephen’s life of mechanical tinkering began at age three when he pulled apart a percolator. After that came sewing machines, model cars, trains and Sturmey hubs. At 10, he opened a bike repair shop in his parents’ garage. He worked in bike shops throughout high school and college, and opened his own frame shop in 1983, under the name Sterling Cycles. In 1992, he changed the name to Bilenky Cycle Works and began taking on apprentices, many of whom have gone on to careers in the cycling industry, including as frame-builders.
In 2010, Stephen Bilenky co-founded the Philly Bike Expo with his daughter Bina Bilenky, which has become one of the largest cycling trade shows in the U.S. The Philly Bike Expo brings together bicycle enthusiasts, activists, competitive cyclists, vendors, and more, creating a unique communal space where diverse experiences are centered and celebrated.
Kensington High School junior Jonathan Ramos is a BCYC All Star, member of the Race Team, and this year’s BCYC Athlete of the Year! According to his coach, “[Jonathan’s] consistent attendance and unwavering dedication have set him apart as a true leader within our team. Jonathan’s ability to motivate his teammates and foster a sense of camaraderie has been invaluable, pushing everyone to strive for their best. He has consistently gone beyond what is expected, not just in his own performance but in his efforts to uplift others.”
We look forward to hearing more from Jonathan at the Gala, and to celebrating these two community leaders!
Join us for the Annual Gala & Awards Dinner happening Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 5:30 to 9:00pm, at The Ridgeland Mansion in West Fairmount Park. For tickets and more information, visit bicyclecoalition.org/gala2024