Announcing the winners of the sets of wheels!

It's December 15th (already, really?) which means it's time to announce the two junior riders who will win a set of wheels from Boyd cycling for Christmas. As you may recall, this contest was not based purely on talent, but rather on finding two well behaved and hard working juniors who need some help with equipment. The response to our contest was overwhelming, we received tons of nominations and it was very hard to choose the winners. I have a very good feeling about the future of the sport in the Carolinas.

But we had to choose the winners. From South Carolina the winner is Kysmin Huff. Kysmin rides for the Spartanburg Junior cycling Team, a team that helps get kids into cycling who may not usually have the opportunity. They work to help teach the cyclists about the hard work and dedication it takes which in part helps keep them out of trouble. Kysmin is working on getting a cycling specific scholarship, using his developing talent to attract different universities. We hope that these wheels will help with that and show that he has what it takes to keep riding and use it for important things like a degree.

For North Carolina the winner is Gabe Allie. Gabe has been racing triathlons for a while, sometimes getting up as early as 4am to get a swim workout in before school. He was also working to save up for a used Trek bicycle that he has been using in his triathlons. Recently Gabe decided to focus on road cycling and since he doesn't have a trainer has been riding outside everyday (even when it's as cold as 30 degrees out). Obviously very competitive and determined, Gabe is also extremely kind, earning the respect and friendship of many of his competitors. It's this kind of sportsmanship, determination to succeed despite any drawbacks, and enthusiasm that makes me happy to award a wheelset to Gabe.

As I said before, I wish that we could have given all the applicants the wheels for Christmas. We are doing a program in the Carolinas this next year where we will be supplying five sets of wheels for neutral service at all the races. At the end of the year we will be doing the same program, giving away those wheelsets to deserving juniors. So, if you are a junior rider in the Carolinas, keep riding strong, acting responsible and mature, and it can pay off next year. To Kysmin and Gabe, Merry Christmas and keep up the great work. . .it's being noticed!