Camp Spokes, the brainchild of Sera Erickson (they/she) and Alexa Santisteban (they/them), kicked off in 2021 as a partnership between Rag and Bones Bicycle Cooperative and Groundwork RVA. Fast forward to 2023, and the camp has not only become a reality but has evolved into a transformative experience for young cyclists in the City of Richmond.
Pedaling Passion: From Vision to Reality
The collaborative vision of Sera Erickson and Alexa Santisteban, Camp Spokes started as a week-long summer camp to introduce bike mechanics and cycling adventure to girls and gender variant youth in middle and high school in the City of Richmond. Sera and Alexa met while working at VCU Ram Bikes, inspired by their shared passion for cycling, and with over a decade of experience in youth mentoring and community organizing, it wasn’t long before Camp Spokes transformed from a vision into reality.
Sera Erickson explains, "The aim is to empower people to learn a new skill and explore hobbies that individuals may not have the chance to."
Building Skills, Building Bikes: More Than Just Riding
Camp Spokes goes beyond teaching biking skills. Participants select a bike to refurbish, which becomes their own after the program. The week is filled with cycling, crafting, building, and important lessons in safety and bike maintenance. Through hard work and hands-on application, they gain confidence, knowledge, and life skills that extend far beyond the realm of cycling. Other activities include building planter boxes, silk screen printing, and introduction to power tools.
"The goal is for them to not only learn how to use a drill but to be comfortable and confident in their skills," says Sera.
The Great Outdoors Beckons: A Bikepacking Adventure Unfolds
Sera and Alexa had recently returned from a bikepacking trip on the Great Allegheny Passage and couldn’t wait to bring that same thrilling sense of accomplishment and life-changing experience to Camp Spokes. With funding support from the Cap Trail Outdoor Equity Fund sponsored by Dominion Energy and Bon Secours, and Adventure Cycling Association, Camp Spokes was able to organize a 20-mile ride and overnight stay on the Virginia Capital Trail. Building up to this adventure, students underwent months of preparation; they did five training rides consisting of 8-10 miles, one mountain biking excursion at Pocahontas State Park, and crash courses in bikepacking essentials (packing panniers, refueling on healthy snacks, using multi-tools to conduct repairs out in the field).
On October 21st, six excited young cyclists embarked on their first bikepacking overnight trip, completing 14 miles on the first day after enjoying lunch at Cul’s Courthouse Grille, and relishing the experience of camping at Chickahominy Riverfront Park. From learning how to pitch tents to cooking on a camp stove and washing dishes, the students not only conquered the trail but also embraced their first camping escapade. Afterwards, they gathered around the campfire sharing stories, reliving the day’s accomplishments, and enjoying Smores. For many, this was their first camping experience.
Highlights from their adventure include going over the long wooden bridges, discovering new plant species, and encountering the diverse landscapes along the Trail for the first time.
A Triumph of Firsts: Memories Made on Two Wheels
Sera reflects on the journey, "They crushed it. They completed something not even many adults have done. We wanted them to understand that this resource (the Virginia Capital Trail) is in your city. You can get on it anytime and just go."
The next morning, after breezing through the last 6 miles and stopping at Spoke & Art Provisions, the adventure concluded with celebratory photos at the Jamestown Trailhead and high fives at MM 0. They finished out the day with a visit to the Jamestown Glass House and dipped their feet in the water at Beach Front Park.
What's Next for Camp Spokes?
With the success of their inaugural bikepacking adventure, Sera and Alexa have exciting plans for Camp Spokes' future. These two dynamic leaders aim to create follow-up adventures, ensuring the participants remain engaged and continue to expand their biking skill set. Camp Spokes is not just about riding bikes; it's about fostering a lifelong love for cycling and empowering young individuals to explore new horizons.
In the words of Sera Erickson, "They took on a huge challenge by venturing into the unknown but really exceeded our expectations and kept great spirits. They made great memories, and they now have some very solid experience with bike adventuring. "
Camp Spokes is more than a camp; it's a gateway to new experiences and a celebration of the extraordinary potential that lies within each young cyclist.
For more information on the Capital Trail Outdoor Equity Fund, please click here.
