MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 27, 2026
Contact: Karen Misciagna, Director of Communications
Phone: 440-617-7307 Email: karen.misciagna@bayschoolsohio.org
Country’s Largest “Bike to School Challenge” Celebrates 19th Year in Bay Village with Olympic Athletes and BMX Spectacle
BAY VILLAGE, OH – The nationally recognized Bike to School Challenge returns to Bay Village Schools for its 19th year, continuing its legacy as the largest bike-to-school program in the country. The event kicks off at Bay Middle School, 27725 Wolf Road, on Monday, May 4 and expands to Westerly Elementary School on Monday, May 11, promoting youth health, environmental sustainability and community spirit.
Originally inspired by a 2007 student-led car boycott to protest rising gas prices, the program has evolved into an award-winning tradition. In 2010, it was named the Bay Village Community Council’s Project of the Year. Last year alone, approximately 60% of Bay Middle School students participated in the challenge.
To celebrate the 19th anniversary, the May 4th kickoff at Bay Middle School will feature an unprecedented BMX Demonstration. Starting at 7 a.m. in the northeast parking lot (lot closest to the Cahoon/Wolf roads intersection), world-class athletes—including Olympic Gold Medalists and X Games stars—will perform high-flying tricks on a professional ramp as students arrive for class.
Featured BMX Athletes:
- Charlotte Worthington: Team Great Britain – 2020 Tokyo Olympic Gold Medalist
- Justin Dowell: Team USA – Current National Champion, X Games & 2X Olympian
- Nick Bruce: Team USA – 2X Olympian & X Games Athlete
- Huck Kurinsky: 4X USA Youth National Champion (Bay Middle School 5th grader!)
- Aaden Reed: Team USA – Amateur Men’s National Champion
- Mattis Neuman: Professional BMX Athlete (Germany)
- Casey, Brody and Jacob Lord: Nitro Circus Athletes & World Record Holders
“The enthusiasm from students and faculty always exceeds our expectations,” said Tom Grodek, Bay Middle School Assistant Principal and an event co-coordinator. “It’s about more than just a ride; it’s about physical activity, helping the environment and having fun together.”
In addition to the stunts, students will enjoy a festive atmosphere with Bay Village’s Smokin’ Rock ‘n Roll food truck, autograph sessions with the pro athletes and giveaways including free bicycle helmets. The nearly month-long Bike to School Challenge runs through Friday May 22.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITY
Media outlets are invited to attend the Bike to School Challenge kickoff on Monday, May 4 at Bay Middle School (27725 Wolf Road). The best visual window for student arrivals and BMX warm-ups is 7:20 a.m. to 7:40 a.m. Coordinators Tom Grodek, Bay Middle School Science Teacher Brent Illenberger and Keir Kurinsky (BMX Champion Huck Kurinsky’s dad) will be available for interviews onsite.
Please contact Karen Misciagna or 440-617-7303 to coordinate specific visual needs or interviews.
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2025 news clip to help you get a feel for the event.
2025 photos and video clips. (It was very foggy the first day.)