Launch of Volunteer-Run Team Whose Mission Is Community-Minded

(November 19, 2013 – San Diego, CA) San Diego cyclists have worked together to launch a cycling team open to riders of all disciplines and categories with members sharing a common interest in strengthening their communities.

Team Captain, Richard La China, a USAC-certified cycling coach, IMBA-certified mountain bike skills instructor, Cat 1 racer, as well as head coach of Ninja Mountain Bike Skills based in San Diego, formed the team in response to riders’ demand.

“Every Tuesday night for the past 18 or so months, a group of mountain bikers has been coming to Balboa Park for a free workout, challenging each other up some of the great climbs and trails there as they get fit for whatever cycling goals they’re pursuing,” said La China. “A team was the natural next step. Now we’re going to train, race and see if we can make difference together.”

Part of being on Team Ninja is committing to support community projects and events, especially in ways that also support the growth and future of the sport.

“Already, we’ve been really excited to see team members, their friends and family step up to help out with the kids’ skills rodeo we hosted to benefit the Monarch School of San Diego,” said Team Ninja captain Richard La China. “It was a lot of fun for everyone involved, and we had a great response from the participants — our big dream is to create a youth cycling program to keep the sport growing, and we’re keeping our eyes open to find more ways to help support both our cycling community, and some of the many amazing non-profits and charities in San Diego.”

The team is run on a volunteer basis by its members. A growing list of sponsors, including Rudy Project, Power Bar and San Diego’s Zumwalt’s Bicycle Center, as well as local cycling industry stalwarts like Sock Guy, have shown great interest and are offering tremendous support for the racers on the roster. The team is open to new membership and anyone who ride a bike of any kind is encouraged to sign up.  Annual membership fees includes a race jersey and contributes to the basic team expenses. The team is comprised of riders participating in mountain bike racing, road racing, track, ultra endurance and gran fondo events.

“We’re already up to over 30 members and though everyone has different cycling goals from a range of disciplines we all share one thing in common and that’s a real sense of the importance of helping others,” said La China. “It’s amazing to see so many great people come together and rally to promote cycling, represent the team, and give a little back.”

Team Ninja is open to anyone. It meets quarterly and supports the Monarch School of San Diego, Promises2Kids and the USO. Learn more by visiting teamninjaelite.com.

NEXT TEAM MEETING IS NOVEMBER 21, 2013 – 6PM, AT LEFTY’S PIZZA IN MISSION HILLS — EVERYONE IS WELCOME, PLEASE RSVP HERE.

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