Fuji Athlete Joe Lawhorn Tackles 24-Hour Record at Valley Preferred Cycling Center to Raise Money for Pennsylvania-Based Community Programs

July 30, 2021

Joe Lawhorn, a professional ultra-endurance athlete, will attempt to break the Valley Preferred Cycling Center 24-Hour Track Record of 669.63-kilometers set by Chris Paradysz in 2009 August 21-22, 2021. Lawhorn’s record attempt will be raising funds for the Valley Preferred Cycling Center’s Community Programs and the Philadelphia Bicycle Coalition Youth Cycling Program.

“I can tell you the energy, focus and excitement is very high [for the record attempt]… I am just honored and grateful that I am getting this chance… love that we have a fundraiser where the funds raised go back to T-town and will benefit the Philadelphia Bicycle Coalition Youth Program. Over the past couple years I have been fortunate enough to do a lot of fundraising for various youth/junior programs and it is a privilege and very rewarding to use my abilities to help children. When something like this is tacked on, it does make me ride a bit harder,” Joe said about his upcoming record attempt.

The Valley Preferred Cycling Center, affectionately known as T-Town, is a 333-meter velodrome. The Cycling Center hosts the Air Product Community Programs each summer aimed at getting riders of all ages on bikes to promote bike safety, fitness, and self-confidence as well as a lifelong enjoyment of cycling. “We at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center are excited to be part of Joe’s record attempt. It’s an incredible physical and mental undertaking and we wish Joe the best of luck and great legs for his attempt,” Joan Hanscom Executive Director of the Valley Preferred Cycling Center said, “All of the partners involved – from the velodrome to Fuji and BikeCo are deeply committed to getting more kids on bikes. We hope that motivation makes the hours pass more quickly for him!”

The proceeds will be split between the Air Products Community Programs and the Philadelphia Bicycle Coalition Youth Cycling Program (BCYC)  works with youth ages 12-18 across Philadelphia to build healthy habits, leadership, and independence through the sport of cycling. “BCYC is very excited about the upcoming record attempt and looking forward to motivating and cheering on Joe while he attempts to crush the record. Let’s go Joe!” Malaku Mekonnen, Director of the BCYC said.

Donations can be made here: https://bicyclecoalition.secure.nonprofitsoapbox.com/fuji-24-hours

For any additional information or inquiries, please reach out to Elspeth Huyett at ehuyett@advancedsports.com