The KMC Cyclo-cross Festival Presented by Maxxis is expanding its Divine Youth program to foster a lifelong love of cycling among students in the Providence area that hosts the event.

“Every child should experience the benefits of cycling and outdoor activity. Exercise, fresh air, safety, and fun are the primary goals of learning to ride a bike within our Divine Youth Outreach Program.” said Tom Bacon, director of the seven-part program. “For many of us, growing up cycling made every trip down the driveway, around the block, or with friends an adventure. Our world became smaller and we became more aware of our community. Unfortunately, that is not the case for all children today. As parents and educators, we strive to create opportunities and adventures for our children and students. Within our school partnerships, children become connected, both locally and globally.”

“Of all the things we do in Providence, nothing makes us a proud as Divine Youth,” said Richard Fries, event director. “We try to create 'lightswitch moments' for these kids. If we get one kid to embrace a bicycling lifestyle, we consider that a huge success.”

Divine Youth will be made up of seven components all designed to spark kids interest in bicycles. These include:

  • Athlete visits to 13 areas schools and 6 YMCAs near the venue.
  • Divine Tech working with local vocational programs that teach aspiring bicycle mechanics. Working with Recycle a Bike and The Met School, elite teams “adopt” a mechanic for the weekend. 
  • The Greater Providence YMCA Kidzone, a complete children’s play zone with inflatables and a bike rodeo course, set up during the park.
  • The Dr. Kim Fries Memorial Kids Races held each day during the weekend.
  • The One Providence program single-speed high school cyclo-cross program that places young riders into Friday’s races with USA Cycling athletes. Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, himself a bike commuter, serving as the team’s honorary captain.
  • Recycle a Bicycle Valet Presented by Abus raising funds to support the non-profit’s build-a-bike program.
  • The Chris Poulos Stunt Show featuring the Providence-born world champion flatlander both in schools and at the race venue.

The seventh annual KMC Cyclo-cross Festival Presented by Maxxis will be held October 2-4, 2015 at Roger Williams Park. The event will feature UCI Category 1 cyclo-cross racing, clinics, expo, the New England Builders’ Ball, the Greater Providence YMCA Kidzone, and Gran Fondo New England. For more information visit providencecrossfest.com.