Special Blend Gravel BIPOC Scholarship Program, powered by She Sends Foundation
Empowering BIPOC Riders to Build Confidence, Community, and Belonging in Gravel Cycling
At She Sends Foundation, our mission has always been rooted in creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and building spaces of belonging in cycling. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Special Blend Gravel to sponsor four scholarships for BIPOC women, women-identifying, and non-binary riders to attend the Fall 2025 Special Blend Gravel Camp in McKenzie Bridge, Oregon.
This scholarship is intended to open doors, and help BIPOC women to thrive in the pursuit of gravel cycling, at all levels of the sport.
We have seen the registration of femmes rise at gravel events, but the percentage of those coming from the BIPOC community is still very low. This scholarship aims to provide opportunities for those who want to help change the landscape and future of gravel riding and racing. The goal is not only to increase access, but also to create spaces of connection and belonging, making the gravel cycling community more welcoming, diverse and inclusive.
Special Blend Gravel Fall Camp will be held September 25–28, 2025, and brings together inspiring, driven women, world-class coaches, and the forest roads of the Cascade Mountains to encourage riders to challenge themselves in a supportive and safe environment to develop skills, knowledge, and confidence both on and off the bike.
What the Scholarship Includes:
Registration to Special Blend Gravel Fall Camp (all inclusive 3.5 day camp - including shared lodging, meals, supported rides, and coaching.
Recipients will be responsible for travel to and from camp, and cycling equipment (bike, helmet, shoes, etc) unless otherwise arranged.
Pre-camp virtual Q&A with Special Blend Gravel Coaches to answer questions and help with camp preparations.
Selection Process
Applications were reviewed by a selection committee made up of BIPOC riders, community leaders and the Special Blend Gravel community. The selection rubric prioritized riders who demonstrated:
Show interest and curiosity to grow in gravel cycling
Have a desire to connect with others, build lasting community, and contribute to inclusion in the gravel cycling space.
Alignment with the mission of inclusion, joy, and empowerment in outdoor spaces
We weren't seeking perfection or polish. We were looking for authenticity, curiosity, and a readiness to be part of a supportive, celebratory, and transformative community.
Selected Riders
Rene Cherico — Orlando, FL
Carol Chow — Portland, OR
Nicole Ilechie — Richmond, VA
Julie Paray — Golden, CO (soon to be Bellingham, WA)