A New MTB Industry Initiative: One Percent For The Trails

I owe so much to the sport of mountain biking! In 13 years as a professional mountain bike skills coach I've gotten to ride almost everywhere, met incredible people, and found a way to make a living doing something I love.  I am so thankful and that's why I'm always looking for ways to give back to the sport. In addition to volunteering my time and company resources for different bike related groups, like Trips for Kids (www.tripsforkids.org) I have consistently donated at least 1% of my business's revenue to organizations that make trails, maintain them, and work to keep them open to mountain bikes.  A student of mine recently made the comment: "Imagine if the whole MTB industry did that!" When I heard that, I was inspired to start www.OnePercentForTheTrails.org: a MTB industry Co-operative whose mission is to encourage and facilitate all Mountain Biking Industry companies to give back a minimum of 1% of their gross sales annually to building and maintaining sustainable mountain bike trails and advocating riders' access.

1% For The Trails does not collect donations, but will  refer MTB Industry companies to organizations raising funds for trail projects around the world and list those Companies along with the organizations they support.   Eligible "trail organizations" can include everyone from IMBA, to private sector and government entities with trail projects, local ride clubs, and the like.   Any organized group with a stated and demonstrated purpose of enhancing MTB trails and access. 1% Percent For The Trails is dedicated to getting every MTB industry company to commit to the pledge.

  The 1% For The Trails Pledge:

  --Company Name-- commits to donate a minimum of one percent of its sales annually to organizations engaged in advocacy, maintenance, and creation of sustainable Mountain Bike Trails.  (Cross-industry supporters pledge to donate one percent of their MTB related revenues.)

Who should take the Pledge?

MTB industry companies including (but not limited to) manufacturers, event promoters, retailers, distributors, Media, and everyone whose business benefits from the existence of trails for mountain bikers to enjoy.

Why?

Our sport needs us.  The growth of mountain biking is directly linked to accessibility and quality of available trails.  Without places to ride, the sport can't grow (or even last). Trail organizations also help to manage our local open spaces in a sustainable manner.

What if you already donate to trail organizations?

Do you need to "take the pledge"? Industry needs to set the example for the consumers, our customers listen. It is up to us to help the sport grow in a sustainable way. We set an example for each other. There are most likely companies out there who aren't doing all they could for the trails. If even a few of those are inspired by OnePercentfortheTrails.org, it will make a huge difference to the organizations they donate to and to the trails we ride and love. If your organization is willing to step up and commit to the pledge, or is looking for funds and would like to be listed on onepercentforthetrails.org email us at trails@betterride.net

About BetterRide:

BetterRide provides structured skills coaching designed to get you riding your best. We offer a free online skills course and monthly tips as well as two and three day camps across the US and abroad. BetterRide was founded by pro racer and USA Cycling Expert Coach Gene Hamilton who has over 20 years of professional coaching experience including 13 years coaching mountain biking skills.  BetterRide's coaching highlights include many top pro racers taking our camps (Chris Van Dine, Mitch Ropelato, Sue Haywood, Ross Schnell, Sarah Kaufman . . .) and over 2,000 riders who just want to get better. All camps are instructed by coaches trained and certified by Gene to communicate his core skills curriculum effectively. Gene and his certified coaches are passionate about coaching, riding and helping others reach their goals. For complete camp schedules and rider reviews and free online skills course visit www.betterride.net or email info@betterride.ne