This is the fifth (and final) post in a blog series highlighting the incredible work that’s done by some of the cycling teams that ERIK’S supports. See all blog posts here!
Team Name: Little Bellas
# of Members: 200 Little Bellas participants and 84 mentors (2024 season)
Location: We have eight programs in Minnesota: four weekly programs for girls 7-13 (Cuyuna, Lakeville, St. Paul, and Woodbury); two ride programs for girls 12-15 (Cuyuna and Twin Cities); one half-day camp at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis; and one partnership camp with the Sanneh foundation in St. Paul.
What is the history of Little Bellas?
Little Bellas first came to Minnesota in 2016 when we applied for a program to run at Carver Lake Park in Woodbury. We sold out that first year with 30 girls and have been slowly growing ever since. One of the strengths of Little Bellas is its mentors, and Minnesota has such a strong pool of dedicated volunteer mentors who selflessly give their time to mentor the riders in all of the programs!
In a nutshell, describe the riders on your team. Did any shared interests or goals bring you all together?
The girls who participate in Little Bellas come from a variety of backgrounds, yet when they join a program, they inspire (and are inspired by) each other to try new things, take risks, celebrate each others’ successes, and generally have a really fun time on mountain bikes. As each program progresses, bonds are formed and strengthened among the girls, who learn about the value of lasting relationships and lifelong skills.
What is the team’s mission statement? In other words, why do you ride?
Little Bellas is a mountain bike organization whose goal is to help young women reach their fullest potential. We aim to create a community to empower women through cycling, accent the importance of goals and a healthy lifestyle, and emphasize a positive female bond. While this program is centered around creating a female camaraderie on bikes, it is most importantly about having fun in a constructive environment.
What are the team’s plans for the future? Any special events or initiatives coming up?
While we are winding down the 2024 season, we’ll have our annual fundraiser, Bellabration, on November 14th at Quality Bicycle Products in Bloomington. Bellabration is a great celebratory event to party like a Little Bella and raise funds for our continued programming. We’d love to see you there! More info here.
Why do you like partnering with ERIK’S?
Our Little Bellas families come from all over the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. The multitude of ERIK’S locations and staff make it very convenient for families to get the equipment and support they need! ERIK’S has also been open to helping with Little Bellas’ requests for swag or other donations.
What are your favorite biking trails or routes in your location? This can be mountain biking trails, city streets, hybrid paths, whatever you prefer!
Little Bellas love riding the singletrack in these areas!
- Battle Creek in St. Paul (especially the new Enchanted Forest Trail by the Battle Creek Rec Center)
- Carver Lake Park in Woodbury
- Cuyuna – trails near the Rally Center, Sagamore Unit, and Yawkey
- Lebanon Hills in Eagan
- Murphy-Hanrehan Park in Savage
- Theodore Wirth Trails in Minneapolis
- West Lake Marion Trails in Lakeville
Stay in touch with Little Bellas on Facebook, Instagram, and their website!