GRIT Inspires and Equips Middle School Girls for Bikepacking in Alaska [Video]

Anchorage GRIT (Girls Riding Into Tomorrow) is a cycling mentorship program for girls in Anchorage, Alaska. The project was conceived by Lael Wilcox and Cait Rodriguez while riding the Baja Divide in the spring of 2017. The six-week program gives 7th- and 8th-grade girls (12-14 years old) an opportunity to be mentored after school through rides and learning sessions led by local women. The girls learn basic riding safety, bike maintenance, first aid, and other skills to prepare for a three-day, 60-mile adventure ride into the Alaskan country. By completing the course and journey, girls can earn their bike and other gear to keep pedaling into their futures. The program is made possible through support from the Anchorage School District, Bike Anchorage, Gu Energy, Revelate Designs, Specialized, and Liberty ID.