BATON ROUGE – For the third straight year the LSU gymnastics team helped host the Wheels to Succeed Bike Race for kids with special needs Saturday near the Carl Maddox Field House.
The McMains Children Developmental Center sponsored the race to benefit children with physical disabilities, and the “Wheels to Succeed” event was created to raise funds that will go toward the purchase of adapted three-wheeled bikes for these children.
The team provided a carnival-like atmosphere by setting up tents and handing out helmets, water bottles as well as balloons and LSU temporary tattoos to the children. Members of the team also encouraged bikers during the race around the Field House.
“It was a great event, and we had such a warm reception from the families,” head coach D-D Breaux said. “It was all about getting the kids who work with McMains’ involved in physical activity like their brothers and sisters do. It was our third year helping with this event, and we look forward to being a part of it next year.”
Breaux emceed the event that featured six races, and the team handed out awards and medals to the participants.
“We look forward to the McMains’ race every year,” senior All-American Samantha Engle said. “It’s great to know our community has this amazing program. This year’s race had a great turnout, and we had a fantastic time working with all the kids.”
To get connected with LSU gymnastics, check out the team on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/lsugym or on Twitter @LSUgym.