While the wildfires in Southern California have created widespread devastation that has affected the lives and businesses of many in the cycling industry, many in the cycling fellowship still suffer from the effects of Hurricane Helene, which swept through Western North Carolina on September 27th. The Hub and Pisgah Tavern have announced the launch of “Local Love on Wheels,” a special fundraising initiative aimed at supporting the ongoing relief and recovery efforts in the region.
With landslides, flooding, and even tornadoes, hitting Western North Carolina particularly hard– the Pisgah Ranger District, home of The Hub, has made significant progress in reopening trails, but many neighboring areas continue to grapple with the overwhelming challenges of rebuilding their homes, businesses and communities.
“Our hearts are with our neighboring communities as they continue the difficult and long journey to recovery,” said Emily Buckley, General Manager of The Hub. “Through Local Love on Wheels, our team wanted to rally the mountain biking community in support of the folks working tirelessly to restore and rebuild the region.”
Funds raised through Local Love on Wheels will directly benefit two remarkable nonprofits: The G5 Trail Collective and Bounty & Soul.
Based in Old Fort, NC, The G5 Trail Collective has been instrumental in clearing trails and promoting outdoor restoration work.
Bounty & Soul, located in Black Mountain, NC, directs its efforts toward addressing food security and supporting local families in crisis. Both organizations have demonstrated unwavering dedication since the disaster struck, and this fund aims to bolster their crucial programs.
The launch of Local Love on Wheels has been bolstered by invaluable support from both local and national partners. Industry Nine, Cane Creek Cycling Components, and RideFOX have all been instrumental to our efforts. We’re grateful that our local industry folk were able to weather the storm and humbled by their generosity.
Overwhelming support has garnered contributions that extend beyond Western North Carolina. Santa Cruz Bikes, TRP Cycling, SRAM, 5Dev, OneUP, PNW, and Continental Tires have all donated essential components that have brought this build to fruition. Because of these partnerships, The Hub has been able to hand pick some of our favorite components to curate a meaningful build and our ideal Pisgah Rig.
Local Love on Wheels is more than just a fundraiser; it is a celebration of collective outdoor spirit and collaboration. By participating, you directly contribute to the recovery and resilience of the trails and communities that mean so much to all.
For more details on how to participate and contribute to Local Love on Wheels, visit www.thehubpisgah.com/locallove or follow The Hub on social media for the latest updates.
Ron is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
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