Welcome to LA Sweat 2021!
By Dani Morshead
Welcome to LA SWEAT 2021!
Our 2020 season was atypical, with a few of us getting in some early season local races before having to comply with lock-downs and shelter-in-place measures due to the pandemic.
While we didn’t get the chance to race together, let alone see each other (in the words of Sarah coney, “Wahhh!!”), we did grow closer as a team. We deepened our relationships with one another via zoom hangs, Zwift rides, and a poppin’ group chat. Together we lamented about the lack of racing and the shared experience of living in a world gripped by a global pandemic.
As we strengthened our bonds and grappled with continuing our daily lives amidst increasingly wild news headlines, it became apparent that LA Sweat, as a collective of like-minded women, has more to offer to the cycling community than just racing (and winning).
We decided to put some of our resources into helping BIPOC youths enter the sport of cycling by partnering with Blackstone Bicycle Works. Blackstone Bikes is a community bike shop based in South Side Chicago, whose youth programs aim to educate and empower Black youth through classes, workshops, a mentoring program, and a race team. You can read more about the incredible things Blackstone Bicycle Works is doing HERE.
In addition to our partnership with Blackstone Bikes, LA Sweat is planning to sponsor four junior riders. These riders will receive team gear, mentorship, and, when applicable, will race with the team.
Lastly, despite having 100% of the 2020 riders return to LA Sweat in 2021, the team decided to open up two spots on the 2021 roster for BIPOC racers. We put out a call to fill these spots and received a number of applications. After numerous rider interviews, we found our new girls. They fit in with the team vibe immediately and we can’t wait to race with them! We are extremely excited to introduce them to you!
And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for: The 2021 LA Sweat Roster Roll Out!!
TEAM:
Ashley Weaver
Dani Morshead
Daphne Karagianis
Emily Flynn
Emma Roberts
Katie Mardayat
Monica Merced
Samantha Schneider
Kelli Samuelson
CASUAL SWEATERS:
Becca Schepps
Lexie Millard
Sarah Coney
Don’t worry we haven’t forgotten about our Junior Squad. They deserve an announcement all on their own.