The second annual La Grind Three Day Stage Race has officially come and gone.
The 2019 La Grind presented by Kohlmeier Dental began Friday afternoon with the launch of Category A riders from Olpe. On Saturday B and C riders joined in the race launching around 9 am from Commercial Street.
Riders launched for the final time at 9 am Sunday with riders beginning to trickle back in around noon. The event officially closed down with the awards ceremony Sunday afternoon which saw the top riders from all three categories recognized.
The category A men’s champion was Jonathan Cavner of Colorado who is a current national champion in track cycling. Cavner took time to speak with KVOE after the ceremony and says La Grind is one of the most well-organized events he has ever attended.
All proceeds from La Grind will benefit Handlebars of Hope a local non-profit cycling ministry which donates bikes both locally and abroad. La Grind Organizer Tom Hayden says the gift of a new bicycle can have a significant impact on an individuals life.
He recalls donating bikes in Mexico as an example.
Hayden adds in terms of next year’s La Grind he doesn’t expect much to change stating “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Along with the race itself, several other events took place throughout downtown Emporia Saturday and Sunday.
Events included a strider ride fun race for children, inflatables, activities from the David Traylor Zoo and Emporia Public Library, a maze, scavenger hunt and much more. For a complete list of placers and their times click here.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon and Devon Swartz
{gallery}La Grind Day Three/Awards Ceremony{/gallery}
{gallery}La Grind Day Two{/gallery}
