From Podium to Pedals: Zane Moore's Journey

Zane Moore's story is one of transformation and inspiration. A former cross-country star at Ida B. Wells High School, Moore is now an engineering student at Oregon State University. His athletic prowess was showcased when he clinched the Oregon Ironman title in Salem, conquering a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a half-marathon. "It was a dream come true," Moore recalls, reflecting on the experience of competing against 2,500 participants.

Moore's triumphs didn't stop there. He continued to excel, winning his age group at the USA Triathlon National Championships in Milwaukie. Inspired by the encouragement he received from fellow athletes, Moore is determined to introduce young people to endurance sports, believing that starting early can make all the difference.

Rebuilding a Community: The Loss of Alpenrose Velodrome

For years, the Alpenrose Velodrome was a cornerstone of Portland's cycling community, offering a space for kids to learn and grow. Moore himself got his start there, crediting the velodrome with sparking his interest in cycling. However, the velodrome's closure left a void, prompting Moore and veteran coach John Benenate to take action.

Together, they launched the Bus Station Cycling Salon, a grassroots initiative aimed at teaching cycling skills and fostering a love for the sport. By hosting clinics in local parking lots and parks, Moore and Benenate are creating new opportunities for young cyclists to develop their skills and confidence.

The Bus Station Cycling Salon: A New Beginning

The Bus Station Cycling Salon is more than just a place to ride—it's a community hub where kids can learn, practice, and play. Held at the Multnomah Presbyterian Church parking lot and Gabriel Park, these sessions focus on fundamental skills like balance, braking, and cornering, as well as safety and teamwork.

Benenate emphasizes the importance of values such as benevolence, good form, and simplicity. The salon also connects with the broader "bike bus" movement, providing a structured environment for families to ride together safely. For those looking to enhance their cycling experience, consider investing in quality gear like the USB LED Bicycle Helmet with UV Protection for added safety during group rides.

Starting Your Own Youth Cycling Clinic

Inspired by Moore and Benenate's success? Here's how you can bring a similar program to your community:

1. Build Partnerships: Collaborate with local schools, churches, and community centers to secure spaces for your clinic.
2. Ensure Safety: Choose locations with minimal traffic and clear sightlines. Implement safety measures like helmet checks and pre-ride inspections.
3. Create a Curriculum: Develop a series of sessions that build on each other, starting with basic skills and progressing to more advanced techniques.
4. Keep it Accessible: Offer loaner bikes and helmets, and recruit volunteers to assist with sessions. Consider providing Hidra2Go Sugar-Free Electrolytes to keep young athletes hydrated during training.
5. Connect with the Community: Promote local bike buses and Safe Routes to School programs to encourage ongoing participation.

Beyond the Bike: Building Confidence and Community

Moore and Benenate's clinics are about more than just cycling—they're about building character and community. By instilling values like teamwork and perseverance, they're helping young people develop skills that will serve them well beyond the bike. The mental toughness required for endurance sports translates directly into life skills that benefit young athletes in all areas.

As Moore continues his studies at OSU, he plans to return to Portland each summer to mentor and coach the next generation of cyclists. His dedication to youth development mirrors the commitment shown by other innovative training approaches in the triathlon community. With each clinic, the community grows stronger, one joyful ride at a time.