Kate Courtney

 sparkle on scholarship

C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S - 2022 Scholarship Recipients Announced

An-Mei Ellisor | Dane Grey | Nora Ellis | Elliot Crowder | Kiera Ramirez | Zoë Harbertson.

NICA Press Release: https://madmimi.com/p/39d9e31/preview

The Sparkle On Scholarship was created by professional cyclist and NICA NorCal Alumna, Kate Courtney, to recognize the often-difficult transition to college and the challenges of balancing college studies and a passion for cycling. The goal of the scholarship is to assist with the financial burden of college and encourage recipients to continue to integrate cycling into their college life while striving for academic success. The ideal candidate is one who during their time with NICA showed determination in pursuit of academic and athletic goals and a commitment to the cycling community and intends to continue to support and participate in cycling in college. Some examples of participation in cycling include, racing at the local or collegiate level, trail stewardship, volunteering with NICA or other cycling groups, and forming or joining a ride group.

The scholarship is awarded to six seniors from NICA leagues and consists of a monetary award of $6,500 each, mentorship in the form of quarterly calls with Kate during their first year of college and participation in a Summit focused on skill building, both on and off the bike. Need will be taken into consideration in the selection process.

For more information please visit: https://www.nationalmtb.org/sparkle-on-scholarship/

“I know from experience that the transition to college as a student-athlete is often difficult and wanted to create this scholarship as a way to help with the challenges of balancing college studies and racing,” shares Kate Courtney. Recipients of this award will receive both financial support and mentorship to aid in their continued pursuit of academic and athletic excellence beyond NICA. “To me,” Kate continues, “excellence is not defined by race results or GPA, but in the attitude and effort with which individuals pursue greatness. I am excited to help support the next generation of NICA student-athletes as they continue to work hard and believe in their dreams.”"