Around 200 bikers grinded it out this weekend in Emporia’s newest cycling event to support Handlebars of Hope.
The inaugural La Grind gravel bike race took place this weekend. The two-day race began Saturday with an 89-mile ride and concluded Sunday with a 59-mile ride. All proceeds from the event will benefit Handlebars of Hope, a local nonprofit which provides bicycles to those who could otherwise not afford them both locally and abroad, specifically in Mexico.
La Grind organizer Tom Hayden explains some areas in Mexico are so impoverished that having a bicycle can make a major difference in everyday life.
Hayden says participation wildly exceeded organizer’s expectations for the inaugural event.
The race concluded Sunday with a block party at 520 Commercial street. Totals from the event will be announced at a later time. Photos are available at KVOE.com.
Photos by Brandon Peoples and Gwen Longbine/KVOE News
{gallery}La Grind race for Handlebars of Hope May 5 2018{/gallery}
