The Black Celebration Series is all about supporting our Black community. Ride or run with notable athletes, community leaders, and their friends during special events throughout the month of February and beyond.
See the event series homepage for the schedule of events
Ride Route:
- 1 hour long
- Includes a climb up NYC’s KOM
- Ride through the roads where IRL legends Major Taylor and Nelson Vails paved the path
Run Route:
- 6.8km // 4.2mi long
- Includes a run up NYC’s KOM
Explore the boroughs where IRL running legend Sir Mo Farrah found his stride during the NYC Half Marathon and inspired generations of runners everywhere.
What is the Black Celebration Series?
The Black Celebration Series is an invitation for members everywhere to join our year-long series of events highlighting the history, athletes, heritage, and joy the Black community brings to Zwift from around the world. With group rides and runs led by featured athletes, we are creating an inclusive environment that empowers and uplifts the community as a whole.
What type of events are these and when are they?
These events will all be group rides or runs. Ride leaders will keep between 1.5 - 2w/kg along the Mighty Metropolitan route in New York with the event lasting for one hour.
Runs will be along the Grand Central Circuit and will cover a distance of 6.8km/4.2mi. Find a group at a comfortable pace to ride or run with in support of the Black community.
What is the LA Bicycle Academy?
Los Angeles Bicycle Academy (LABA) is a youth education program, community bike shop and youth cycling team with a mission to empower, educate and develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills with boys and girls aged 8-18. LABA’s cycling team seeks to expand the capabilities of youth from communities where exposure and access to the sport of cycling and lifestyle are limited.
For more information, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Why is Zwift supporting LA Bicycle Academy
LA Bicycle Academy is an organization committed to supporting and sponsoring youth athletes that may not have had the resources to continue their cycling career.
LABA was formed by the former co-founders of Major Motion, Damon Turner and David Pulliam, who helped mentor some of the most amazing athletes in the sport today, including Justin Williams, Cory Williams, Rahsaan Bahati and Coryn Rivera. Rahsaan Bahati credits much of the work he has been able to accomplish in cycling and through the Bahati Foundation to the guidance he received from the Major Motion team.
LABA’s mission centers on supporting communities without exposure and access to cycling - knowing they benefit most from the organization. Zwift hopes to expand LABA’s impact through a donation as well as provide the young cyclists with mentoring opportunities that will carry them beyond a professional career.
How much is Zwift Donating?
Zwift has committed to donating an initial $25,000 to the LA Bicycle Academy program.
Is there an in-game event requirement to unlock this donation?
There is not an in-game requirement to unlock the donation.
How can I help to support LA Bicycle Academy?
LA Bicycle Academy welcomes donations through this link.
What else is Zwift doing to progress Diversity and Inclusion?
Zwift is committed to progressing diversity and inclusion within the game, within the organization, and within the larger Zwift community. Learn more about our efforts here.
What inspired the colors of the Black Celebration Series jersey?
The Black Celebration Series colors are inspired by the Pan-African flag. This flag holds significance within the Black community and symbolizes Black freedom in the United States. Wearing this kit will show support for the community all year long.
Why do these events take place in New York?
New York is where many legendary Black cyclists, including Major Taylor and Nelson Vails, got their start. Ride and run on the virtual roads where these trailblazers made history and get inspired to carve your own path for the generations to come.