This 6-week fall season was defined by growth, experimentation, inclusion, and a renewed focus on what makes BCYC special.
We strengthened our team culture, expanded our mountain biking efforts, and laid the groundwork for even bigger steps forward in 2026 and beyond. With 57 youth registered and 50 completing the season, we managed to keep participants engaged and the program growing.
Expanding Our Reach and Reimagining Programming
This year, we operated in five schools instead of six, a strategic choice that helped us deliver high-quality experiences across all sites. Four programs followed our traditional curriculum, while one site piloted a new workshop-based model. That experiment opened the door to creative, flexible programming that kept riders excited and engaged.
And the results? Some of our strongest season-wide achievements yet.
Season Highlights
Mountain Biking at Its Best
Our mountain biking program hit a new stride this year.
- We engaged more female riders than ever before, thanks in part to intentional recruitment at Saul.
- BCYC teams showed up strong at all four PICL races — Blue Marsh, Belmont, Blue Mountain, and Fairhill.
- We welcomed a wave of first-time cyclists, including several youth who had never ridden a bike before September… and still completed full race courses by the end of the season.
- MACS held steady with reliable weekly participation, growing to a pool of nearly 15 riders.
- Kensington showed continued promise — especially with Spanish-speaking youth and riders with intellectual disabilities joining the mix.
It was a season full of breakthroughs, bold moments, and young people realizing what they’re capable of when they have support behind them.
Community in Motion: The Philly Bike Ride
One of the most memorable days of the season was the Philly Bike Ride, where 50 participants — youth, coaches, site supports, and alumni — rolled through the city together.
It was more than a ride. It was a celebration of community, joy, and the power of movement. As always, BCYC brought the party to the afterparty.
Workshops & a Girls’ Cycling Clinic
Pickett became our testing ground for innovation this fall. Instead of a traditional schedule, the site embraced a workshop-style format, allowing us to try new approaches to engagement.
One major success was the girls’ clinic, a dedicated space designed to empower and attract new female riders. The energy and turnout proved that creative programming is not just fun, it works to create a more inclusive environment for would-be riders.
Building the Future of BCYC Racing
One of the biggest milestones this season was the launch of our Race Development Team, made up entirely of BCYC All-Stars. Led by Coach Jerry and Coach Crit, this group represents the early foundation of what will become BCYC’s Elite Race Team.
This fall’s focus was on: consistency, discipline, race readiness, structured training, and developing long-term racing goals. And the early signs? Extremely promising. If progress continues at this pace, we’re expecting podium finishes and top-ten placements in regional races across the DMV by next summer.
This initiative opens a pathway for committed youth to train, compete, and represent Philadelphia at a higher level.
Celebrating the Education Team
None of this happens without our dedicated part-time Education Team.
We closed out the season with a celebration to honor the people who coach, guide, support, and show up for our youth every single week.
Their commitment is the backbone of the BCYC experience, and this season proved once again how much heart they bring to the work.
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Looking Ahead: Spring 2025 and Beyond
Coming out of our strategic planning meeting, we’re gearing up for a strong spring season. Priorities include:
- Preparing for 2026 scheduling challenges, including adjustments related to the World Cup
- Strengthening coach recruitment, especially in mountain biking
- Finalizing Spring 2025 plans and starting early fleet repairs
- Securing permits and logistics for Hustle N’ Ride
The goal is simple:
Carry this momentum into a consistent, sustainable, and high-impact spring season.
This fall we strengthened our culture, expanded our programs, and planted the seeds for an even bigger future. Thank you to every coach, volunteer, parent, partner, and supporter who helped make this season such a success. We’re ending on a high note — and already building toward an even stronger spring.
Safe streets are a right, not a privilege. We’re creating a stronger community WITH YOU! Investing in our year-round advocacy and education work makes Greater Philadelphia a safer and more fun place to ride—right now, the Coalition is asking 750 folks to join or renew their support for another year to continue that work. More info here.