Optic Nerve is kicking off its support of the Colorado High School Cycling League with an online sale designed to raise funds for the statewide mountain bike racing organization. From now through Sept. 30, $1 for every $1 of products purchased in the company’s new website and online store will be donated to the League to a max of $2,000.
 
“Our company is deeply rooted in Colorado. We love mountain biking and we love kids so we are really thrilled to support the high school mountain bike league,” said Optic Nerve President Bill Cotton. “The league is developing riding skills and fostering leadership, sportsmanship and camaraderie in a ways that you don’t see so much of in sports that leave some players on the bench. We love the fact that in this league, there is no bench. That’s something we can – and plan to – get behind for the longterm.”
 
Going beyond the requirements of a bronze level sponsor, Optic Nerve is also offering a free pair of sunglasses to the first 75 students to register for the entire league season. Cotton said the Optic Nerve management team and staff are also fired up to volunteer at the league’s season opener, the Chalk Creek Challenge, Sept. 9, in Nathrop, CO.
 
Participation in the leagues continues to mushroom, according to League Executive Director Kate Rau. “Sponsors like Optic Nerve are crucial to keeping pace with growth and the kids really appreciate the support,” Rau said. This will be the league’s third season. Last year, 325 students from 33 public and private schools from around the state participated.
 
Optic Nerve Chief Alchemist Tom Fox is an avid mountain biker and veteran 24-hour racer so he has a personal stake in developing product that fits and performs so the last thing you have to worry about on the trail is your eye protection. Optic Nerve sunglasses are popular among cyclists who appreciate the UV protection, hydrophobic coating and anti-reflective lens technology that’s built into every product.
 
Founded in 2009, The Colorado High School Cycling League is the regional governing body of mountain biking for grades 9-12. A founding member of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA). the statewide league provides high quality competitive cross-country racing in addition to leadership, governance and program support to promote the development of mountain bike teams, athletes, coaches, camps and events. For league schedule and more information, visit the league’s website.