Three Ottawa cyclists receive the National Capital Region bursary

Ottawa cyclists Mike Woods, Emily Flynn and Braydon Bourne received the 2014 National Capital Region (NCR) bursary to help fund their ambitions in competitive bike racing. The bursary, run by Ross Knite of Seenite Sports, has raised more than $36,000 in funds for developing cyclists in Ottawa over the last 15 years.

Woods, 27, is a former national team runner who transitioned to road cycling. He competed with the Garneau-Quebecor squad before signing with the Italian team Amore e Vita for the 2014 season. “I’m so grateful to the Ottawa cycling community for all the support and help I have received over the course of my career, and I feel so lucky and honoured to be the recipient of the bursary. A big thanks to Ross and all else involved,” he said.

Flynn, 20, is a mountain biker who has transitioned to road racing. She will be racing with Stevens-The Cyclery this year and is hoping to earn a spot on the national team. “I would like to thank the Ottawa cycling community so much for this bursary. It means so much to a working student to be able to not have to worry as much and be able to continue to pursue my passion for cycling,” she said.

Bourne, 24, is a road racer for Stevens-The Cyclery and will be competing at the Tour of Morocco, the national road championships and B.C. Superweek. “I’m very proud to have been selected as a recipient of the 2014 NCR bursary. Ottawa has a great cycling community, and I have learned a lot from many people within it. I am currently devoting my winter to a 3 month training camp in Tucson before kicking off my race season overseas.”

Local companies and organizations that contribute to the bursary include The Cyclery, Ride with Rendell, Gatineau Challenge, Ontario Cycling Association, Bike Race Ottawa and Ottawa Bicycle Club.