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Southern Maryland BMX donates bikes and holds memorial race benefiting children in St. Mary’s County
Summary
Southern Maryland BMX presented 16 bicycles and helmets donated in memory of racer Scott Hoppe; department staff said the bikes will be used in summer camps and youth programs at the Chaptico Park track under a lease agreement.
Southern Maryland BMX presented bicycles and helmets to the St. Mary’s County Recreation and Parks Board on Thursday, describing a memorial fundraising race held in memory of racer Scott Hoppe and a resulting donation intended for local children.
Kyle Lightbaum, track director for Southern Maryland BMX, said the nonprofit all-volunteer track hosted more than 45 races this season with about 2,200 riders attending the facility overall and an average of roughly 50 riders per week. Lightbaum said the club hosted a state qualifier this year that drew more than 225 riders.
Lightbaum said the Hoppe family donated trophies and later worked with the track to hold a memorial event that raised funds to buy bikes for county youth. The track presented “14 of the 12‑inch strider bikes and two 16‑inch bikes, plus helmets,” Lightbaum said in his presentation. Donors Don and Lois Hoppe were present at the meeting.
Jessica Hale of the Recreation Division said the department plans to put the donated bikes to use in department programs, including summer camp activities and a planned BMX introduction program. Board and staff members noted that the track at Chaptico Park operates under a lease with the county, that the club provides maintenance and insurance, and that membership (at a low cost) and waivers are required for participants.
Department staff praised the partnership between the nonprofit track and Recreation and Parks, and invited citizens to the track at Chaptico Park to learn about membership and program schedules.
