Solidarity Cycling Academy

This program for 20 kids under 16 years old runs in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia. This is the area that was hit by a terrible war and siege over the past years. There were terrible fights, people died, there was hunger and fear. But Haile Melekot, one of the few Ethiopian cyclists that had a chance to race as a semi-pro in Europe, kept training with his kids. “the kids were hungry, but I am so proud they kept training”, said Haile. After the war ended, races were resumed in cycling-mad Tigray, and it was touching to see how much joy the races brought to any thousands of spectators.

 

The Solidarity Cycling Academy is very ambitious and aims to develop a pathway towards the professional international cycling scene for some of its incredibly talented members. We have no doubts that some of them will reach World Tour level.

 

You can support the Solidarity Cycling Academy by donating in our webshop. You will receive a certificate, confirming your support and you can follow the Solidarity Cycling Academy, Haile and the kids through social media.

Annual budgets needed to support the cycling dreams of these 18 kids (and staff):
1. Activities 4000 Euro

2. Equipment 5000 Euro

3. Food 9000 Euro

4. Accommodation 3000 Euro

5. School support 1200 Euro

6. Staff & support (2 staff): 6000 Euro