The Capital Crossroads and Discovery SID ambassadors log many bicycle miles each year. In 2020, bicycle patrols in the Discovery SID totaled 5,500 miles. And, in Capital Crossroads SID the total was 4,300 miles. That’s some serious wear and tear on their wheels.

Enter Gordon Phillips, who volunteers his considerable expertise to the SIDs tuning up the ambassadors’ bicycles. After retiring from the United States Air Force, Phillips graduated from the prestigious Barnett Bicycle Institute Mechanics Program. He then worked as the Community Ambassador and Shop Mechanic for Trek Bikes Albuquerque from 2009 to 2019. When he moved to Columbus, he began looking for a way he could volunteer to help the community. And, that is when his relationship with the SIDs began.

“I always loved bicycles. After I retired from the Air Force, I wanted to find a way to give back. I volunteered with the Trek store in Albuquerque. Then, when I moved to Columbus, I learned about the SID and was asked if I might be interested in helping them out. It’s been a great way to give back in a new community, a way to get plugged in and serve,” said Gordon Phillips.

A Vision for the Future

Phillips is glad for the opportunity to help the SIDs, and hopes to expand his efforts further. He would like to partner with a bicycle store to rebuild bikes for the homeless and needy in Columbus. “That is my vision for the future. Right now, I am taking the ride and seeing where it’s going,” added Phillips. 

The Capital Crossroads and Discovery SIDs are very grateful for his time and vast expertise. Thanks to his help, our Ambassadors can make their bike rounds on cycles that are ready to roll.