Give it Up for Pride of the People—L39ION of Los Angeles

American elite cycling team L39ION of Los Angeles launched a fundraiser to help support the team’s initiative to increase diversity and inclusion with in the sport of cycling.  Front and center at this effort is Justin Williams, Outride Athlete Ambassador who is truly fulfilling the role of being a leader in the sport of cycling and supporting youth cycling at the level it takes to motivate change and act now.

Outride’s Athlete Ambassadors give the youth in our Riding for Focus programs someone to look up to. These athletes each have a story of how cycling has impacted their lives - inside and outside of competition. We want our kids to see the whole picture when it comes to bike riding, and we found some incredible athletes to help us achieve this goal.

“I support Outride and getting kids on bikes because I know what it’s like coming from a tough neighborhood. The bike gave me perspective, and it allowed me to escape a mindset and destiny fed to me since I was a kid. The bike gave me hope and provided me with positive influences. Specialized is putting a little more of that into the world.”

Justin set up the GoFundMe page - Pride of the People - L39ION of Los Angeles - The team had a goal of reaching $50,000 in donations and a five-point plan that covers how to use the funds including supporting junior programs and riders through grants, talent camps, and equipment needs. To date, donations are closing in on $120k. Dante Young, Thomas Revard, and Tyler Williams, also Outride Ambassadors, are in for the long pull, too.

This year's entire team roster also includes Cory Williams, Diego Binatena, Eder Frayre, Hunter Grove, Lance Haidet, Scott Law, Cory Lockwood, Isaiah Oliver, Thomas Revard, Tyler Williams, and Dante Young.

Justin shared, "We are showing that representation matters from the top of the podium and giving our hearts and souls to bring hope and acceptance to the outdoor world. The time is now! We are taking control of our own destiny. The team is building a future where everyone is welcome. The reimagining of cycling has started and it has a new face."

Watch the short feature of the Williams Brothers Story—Justin and Tyler and help them continue to raise the bar. Hustle & Motivate: A Williams Brothers Story | SundanceTV. As Justin shared, “the more support we can gather, the better prepared we will be to grow cycling and its ability to heal and transform people’s lives.”

When Justin talks—we listen!

MY EARLIEST MEMORY ON A BIKE IS…

Elementary school, my parents picked me up with a bike on the back of the car. I spent the next five hours riding around our yard.

WHY DO YOU RIDE?

For freedom, for perspective, and for health

ADVICE TO UP-AND-COMING CYCLISTS:

Pay attention to all of the the wonderful things cycling has to offer. It can take you places you never thought you'd you'd go. Find people that have experience and make friends with them. And know, it'll take way longer then you think to get better, so be patient.

WHY DO YOU SUPPORT OUTRIDE?

I support Outride and getting kids on bikes because I know what it’s like coming from a tough neighborhood. The bike gave me perspective, and it allowed me to escape a mindset and destiny fed to me since I was a kid. The bike gave me hope and provided me with positive influences. Specialized is putting a little more of that into the world.