Two-wheeling toddlers - some still in diapers - stand over Strider bikes at the starting line. Cowbells jangle. Crowds cheer. Feet stomp the ground. Hundreds of families roar for their racers. Ready, set, go!
Let the countdown begin! The 2024 Strider Cup will take place on Saturday, September 14th in Downtown Rapid City. Read this blog for tips to help you pack and prepare for an amazing community event.
Who is coming?
Everyone! The guest list includes all our current and future members of the Strider Community, and we invite you to join us in hitting new milestones, celebrating awesome kids, and making unforgettable memories.
Children are encouraged to register now for all Strider Cup events including sprint races for ages 2 – 4 and Adventure-Cross stage races for ages 4 – 6. Just a heads up that only Genuine Strider Balance Bikes are permitted to race.
From the Strider Bikes staff coordinating the day and setting up the races, to family and friends traveling from near and far, it’s all about coming together and having a great time.
What should we bring?
As is the case in preparing for any big trip, something is bound to get left behind. Here are some items you’ll want to pack ahead of time for a fun-filled race day experience!
- Protective Gear: Bring hats, sunglasses, and sunblock. These essentials help to keep your body cool, your eyes from squinting, and prevent those bummer sunburns. Don’t forget to pack your racer’s helmet and closed toe shoes – these items are required to compete at the Strider Cup. Finally, we recommend a pad set and racing gloves in case it gets rowdy on the racetrack!
- Electronic Accessories: Don’t forget chargers and batteries for your phones and cameras so you can capture your kiddo’s “Look what I can do” race face, or that proud “I did it! I did it!” victory stride!
- Fuel & Hydration: Load up on snacks and plenty of water. Providing sustenance can keep everyone (grown-ups included) content throughout all the Strider Cup excitement. Your racer’s registration bag will have a few awesome snacks from our sponsors and the event schedule also includes a lunch break from 12:00 – 1:00pm.
- Cheerleading Supplies: Prepare for the fanfare of the day. Cram in cowbells, posters, pompoms, and anything else you need to properly cheer on racers all the way to the finish line! Out of space in your suitcase? Visit our on-site Strider Cheer Station, which is fully stocked with supplies, so you can create your own sign and make some noise clanging cowbells – it's all part of the fun!
- Festive Attire: The Strider Cup is a great opportunity for your family to rock their best Strider apparel. Plus, this year we have exclusive Strider jerseys included for racers in every registration packet while supplies last.
Where are we going?
Strider Cup events are held all over the world, but this year is close to our headquarters – and our hearts – in Rapid City, South Dakota! We can’t wait to host you in our hometown and to put on an amazing event for all our Strider riders.
In addition to the biking bash, check out some local spots that are sure to be enjoyable for the whole family while you’re here:
- Robbinsdale Bicycle Playground
Explore Rapid City's Bicycle Playground specifically designed for younger kids and entry-level riders to enjoy a fun day outdoors in Robbinsdale Park! Features include a concrete pump track, a natural-surface trail with tunnels, bike ramps, ladders, and cones. This one-of-its-kind park was made possible thanks to a donation from Strider Bikes. Stride along the lollipop-shaped bike path encircling the park and check out the local BMX park, playgrounds, and more!
- World’s Largest Reptile Zoo
Visit one of the top 10 zoos in the United States and the world’s largest reptile zoo – Reptile Gardens. Home to gators, lizards, snakes, birds, and over 40,000 flowers in its botanical gardens, this popular attraction can be a place to relax, learn, or enjoy on the edge of your seat excitement.
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Tour the grounds of this indoor and outdoor museum to see more than 30 vintage military aircrafts, some dating back to World War II, and read fascinating stories about past military missions, and learn about the future of aerospace. It’s a great educational stop for all ages and the museum is free admission! An added bonus, this is one of the Top 10 museums and galleries in Rapid City.
Why attend?
Some clubs have a secret handshake or password – our club has a Strider Bike and a spirit of adventure. Strider Cup events connect riders from around the world, and offer members of our community a time and place to gather and celebrate life on two wheels. Most importantly, these events are a whole lotta fun!
Oh yeah, we should probably also mention Strider Cup races are top-tier national events where young kids showcase their Strider Bike skills across the USA and worldwide. These exciting races offer the thrill of competition for all skill levels.
But wait - there's more! All racers will receive either a trophy or a medal depending on their finishing place, along with a custom souvenir number plate, exclusive Strider Cup racing jersey (while supplies last) and a bunch of cool items in their registration bag. Everyone deserves some swag to help celebrate their accomplishments and passion for riding Strider bikes.
That said, the Strider Cup isn’t only about the racing. It’s about reminding each child of the power of freedom, friendship, and fortitude that comes with life on two wheels. We hope you will join us in honoring our Strider riders at the races, meeting great people from all over, and exploring all that our hometown has to offer.
