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recalled. “How privileged I was to be out there, taking a day
to pay money, put a number on my bike, and race circles
around; so I wanted to provide that opportunity for people.”
He especially noticed the lack of diversity, which inspired
Doug even further to share mountain biking with our
wonderfully diverse West County community.
“In our case, we’re pushing societal norms by introducing
a sport that’s predominantly white and male to boys and
girls who are mostly not white and male,” he stated.
“Mountain biking gets everyone involved,” Doug
continued. “There’s no bench; everyone plays! It’s a really
great sport for a young person.”
Regardless of who wants to join the team, Richmond
Composite will make it happen with or without your own
gear.
“Our team is committed to supporting 100% of the
students who want to give it a try,” Doug said. “We have
fundraised pretty extensively, and continue to, and have
taken on a whole range of sponsorships so that we can
support any kid who wants to show up.”
Loaner bikes, race fees, registration fees, jerseys—all a
student needs to join the team is the interest and the
tenacity to stick with it.
Doug has also found a way to let students keep their
loaner bikes after the season ends, he said, via fundraising
and sponsorhips. “Potentially, they’re earning their bikes by
participating in the team and showing up for practice.”
Richmond Composite is one of 73 other teams in the
NorCal High School Cycling League which is governed by
the National Interscholastic Cycling Association.
If you know a high school student who may be a good fit for
the Richmond Composite mountain biking team, or would
like to help Doug lead the team and help it grow, call or text
(510) 974-3154 or visit richmondcomposite.com.
Richmond Composite frequents the Bay Trail, Point Pinole
Regional Park, Wildcat and Tilden regional parks, and more.
Doug loves it when people assume they just ride on the
sidewalks through town. He always responds saying, “No
way! There’s all kinds of cool riding and amazing trails in
Richmond.”