To The Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance Community,
First, to our outgoing President, Olivia "Liv" Birkenhauer, you have been a remarkable leader and worked diligently to form alliances with local landowners and managers. You've served this community for nine years, and we will forever be indebted to you!
I am thrilled and honored to take on the role of President of CORA. My intent is that CORA will not only create a more robust trail network and cycling community but that it will also be at the forefront of building a culture surrounding all outdoor recreation. Developing an outdoor culture that people will move here for, local businesses will benefit from, corporations will leverage to recruit talent, and residents will participate in to improve their physical and mental health will be at the forefront of my mind as we move through the next year.
Besides being a husband and dad, no part of my life defines me more than my passion for trails, cycling, and growing the sport in our region. I've been fortunate to be a part of this community for decades, having grown up in Fort Thomas and riding the trails of Tower Park going back to the 90s. Since then, many of my greatest friendships, memories, and experiences have resulted from this sport and the places it takes you.
Over the past decade, I've been lucky enough to enjoy trails across the country, from North Carolina and Tennessee to Washington and California. As a result, I've seen firsthand what it looks like when a city, region, or state unites behind the mission to improve the lives of its residents by increasing access to natural surface trails. And what CORA has accomplished in years past puts us squarely in the position to be the voice and organization that pushes for and executes similar feats right here in Greater Cincinnati.
2023 should be a remarkable year for our community. The Devou Park trail expansion is out to bid, we're launching the CORA Bike and Trail Expo this March, the Mt. Airy skills area and connector trail are gaining funding, and many additional projects. We've also got big ideas around hosting more dig days, group rides, and community-building events, so be on the lookout for those announcements (and share your ideas if you've got some!).
I could not be more excited to take on this challenge and help build more trails close to home. To get things started, I'd love to hear from you, our community, on what's important in your eyes. Please email me at bdelong@coramtb.org.
Brady DeLong
CORA Board President