June 5, 2023 at 11:50 a.m.
Little Bellas gearing up for second season in Rhinelander
Local cyclist Val Foley is the program leader for the Rhinelander/Northwoods chapter of Little Bellas which is gearing up for its second season.
The eight-week program will kick off in August, but registration is open now.
The program, founded in 2007 in Vermont, offers mentoring through mountain biking.
"Little Bellas is a mountain bike organization whose goal is to help young women realize their potential through cycling," a program brochure states. "We aim to create a community that will empower girls through the sport, emphasize the importance of goal-setting, promote healthy life styles and recognize the positive effects of strong female bonds. We are offering 8 sessions of fun, riding bikes, and smiles. Plus, a jersey, goodie bag, snacks, and a party!"
Sessions will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27, Sept. 4, 10, 17 and 24 at the Washburn Lake Silent Sports Trails Area.
According to the Little Bellas website, "the name's origins come from a women's riding club called the 'Bellaship of the Wheel' that was native to Little Bellas' home turf in Vermont. There was an informal discussion about creating a Little Bellas club but that formality never really crystalized. Instead the young girls associated with the Bellaship of the Wheel voluntarily called themselves 'Little Bellas,' which unintentionally radiated a great sense of belonging and connection for them."
"It's all about the girls," Foley told the River News last spring. "We get on bikes, we have fun. They might not even ride very much. They're learning how to socialize. they're learning how to respect others and themselves and it empowers them and they're enjoying time together. It's similar to Girls on the Run," she said.
"Girls on the Run" is a program for 8- to 13-year-old girls that promotes girl empowerment by teaching life skills through lessons and running, according to its website.
"It just kind of piggybacks on what I love to do the most which is biking, mountain biking, and coaching and helping other people enjoy the sport," Foley added, noting that as a grandmother of five girls she is always on the lookout for fun, healthy activities.
The cost of the program is $199, but financial assistance is available. Bikes can also be provided.
Visit www.littlebellas.com/register to sign up.
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