Cycling team is freezin’ for local charity

The University of Wisconsin–Madison cycling team will be “Freezin’ for Safety” on Friday, Feb. 19, to raise money for the Madison Area Safe Kids Coalition.

The Safe Kids Coalition provides car seats and bicycle helmets for underprivileged youth in the Madison area so they can stay safe while participating in everyday activities.

The annual 12-hour fundraiser, beginning at 8 a.m. and ending at 8 p.m., involves cycling team members riding bicycles on stationary trainers on Library Mall, regardless of the weather. The event is expected to generate more than $2,000.

“Cyclists are typically very involved within their own communities,” says cycling team president Jason Carr. “‘Freezin’ for Safety’ is one of our team’s ways to uphold that reputation. It is especially meaningful that we are able to fund bicycle helmets for kids in our very own city.”

The value of bicycle helmets holds a deep place in cycling team members’ hearts, for the team lost one of its own five years ago due to head trauma sustained during a bicycle race.

“All we ask is for two things,” Carr says. “First, that you wear your helmet when riding. It’s the safest thing to do. Second, that you consider helping those who can’t afford a helmet so they can do the same. Consider donating a small fraction of what you spend on coffee or meals out. It will do a lot of good.”

For more information, visit http://www.uwcycling.com.