New SoCal League hosting fundraiser

The brand new Southern California high school racing league is holding its kick-off fundraising event on Saturday, November 22. Held at the famous Ca Del Sole Italian Restaurant near Burbank, the Benefit Dinner will feature celebrity cycling speakers and hosts, a silent auction of cycling and non-cycling related items, a fine Italian dining experience, and an opportunity to support the growth of a cycling curriculum throughout hundreds of high-schools in Southern California.

"The success and support of the League in NorCal has been so great over the last eight years, that we've been able to really dial in our program as a template to get kids anywhere to be able to start Mountain Biking programs at their schools," said NorCal League director Matt Fritzinger. "We decided to expand our program South, and with the help of Founding President Quintin Easton have created the SoCal League."

Modern mountain bike pioneer Gary Fisher will be the official MC of the night, providing quips and commentary of the various activities that will be taking place during the dinner and auction.

"Having grown up racing bikes since I was a kid, starting a bike company when I got older, and continuing to ride as much as I can, I know the value of having cycling available as a sporting option for kids," said Fisher. "In the future they will ask, 'How did bike racing become a major sport in the USA? The High School MTB league was what made the difference.'"

Guest of honor Tony Cruz, a former Discovery Channel team racer and current BMC racer, will also join in. "While the adult segment of cycling is booming, it seems to me that in general, the junior programs have not gotten the attention they need here in the United States. What the SoCal League is doing fits right into my mindset and future - creating an exciting, fun, positive outlet for kids through cycling."

For more information visit www.socaldirt.cmarket.co.