Our Story

How It Started

In 2020, during the pandemic, we discovered that BMX racing was still active in our community. Traditional sports were on pause, the bicycle market was at a standstill, and local bike shops could barely get bicycles or parts. Used bikes were difficult to find and often overpriced.

On August 29, 2020, three dads and six kids attended a local single-point race at Peninsula Indoor BMX. Our kids were immediately hooked.

To support our local bike shop, Cycle Therapy Bike Shop in Kent, Washington, we designed a simple black jersey with black-and-white checkered sleeves featuring the shop logo. That jersey marked the beginning of Cycle Therapy Racing.

What We’ve Become

In December 2020, we began with an idea for a BMX racing team supported by shop owner Ric Hutchens. The team quickly grew from six riders to 23.

After our full year of racing, gaining team sponsors, and building a close-knitracrng family, Cycle Therapy Racing grew into what is today: an all volunteer 501c(3) nonprofit organization.

Our goal is to introduce young people to cycling in all its forms. With a name like Cycle Therapy, we also recognized how important cycling can be for youth and families facing mental health challenges.

Today, our board members, team riders, volunteers, and families share a belief that cycling can provide connection, confidence, purpose, and a positive outlet during difficult seasons of life.

We are committed to serving our community and building a stronger future through cycling.

What’s your cycle therapy?

Board of Directors

Our board of directors leads the planning, partnerships, and hands-on work that powers Cycle Therapy Racing. As an all-volunteer nonprofit, our board members help guide programs, support families, and keep our mission moving forward

Board of Directors

  • A bald man with a beard wearing a dark gray polo shirt with a logo on the chest, standing outdoors with a blurred background of trees, a bicycle, and a trash can.

    Brent Azus

    PRESIDENT

    Brent grew up riding bicycles in Kent, Washington, but discovered BMX racing alongside his three children in 2020. What began as a family activity became a community and the inspiration for Cycle Therapy Racing.

    A Railroad conductor and longtime elected union representative, Brent has built his career around supporting and advocating for others. He brings that same commitment to CTR, helping create opportunities for children to get outdoors, build confidence, and find a sense of belonging through cycling.

    For Brent, the most meaningful part is seeing children discover their abilities and feel supported by the people around them.

    Family is central to Brent’s connection to cycling. Sharing that experience with his supportive wife Charity, and their three kids makes CTR’s work especially meaningful to him.

  • A man with light skin, short light brown hair, and a light beard, smiling and wearing a blue polo shirt with a logo on it, standing against a plain beige wall.

    Kyle Coen

    VICE PRESIDENT

    Kyle has spent much of his life racing bicycles and motorcycles. Along the way, support from sponsors and friends helped him pursue opportunities he now wants to make possible for other children and families.

    With a professional background in railroad operations and safety management, Kyle brings a focus on safety, encouragement, and community to Cycle Therapy Racing. He believes the joy of riding should be accessible regardless of age, experience, or background.

    Through CTR, Kyle helps create a welcoming place where kids can try something new, build confidence, and experience the friendships that made racing meaningful to him.

    Kyle also values time with his wife Rachele and their three children bringing that appreciation for family and shared experiences to the welcoming community he helps build through CTR.

  • A woman with long brown hair smiling, outdoors during sunset.

    Chris Jewell

    BIKE MECHANIC

    Chris’s love of bicycles began in childhood and includes 20 years as a bike messenger in Seattle and Philadelphia. A railroad engineer by profession, he brings years of hands-on bicycle experience and passion for helping others to Cycle Therapy Racing.

    Through CTR’s camps and community repair van, Chris helps keep bikes rolling and introduces young riders to bicycle care and maintenance. He enjoys helping children discover cycling as a positive outlet and a way to connect with others.

    Outside of work and volunteering, Chris enjoys tinkering with bicycles and spending time with his wife, Katie, and their four pugs.

  • Close-up of a smiling man with a bald head, beard, and blue eyes, outdoors in front of a house and some trees.

    Anthony Grasher

    LEGAL COUNSEL

    Anthony grew up in South Kind County and earned degrees from the University of Washington and Syracuse University College of Law. A practicing criminal law attorney, he brings extensive lease experience and a commitment to advocacy to Cycle Therapy Racing.

    Anthony serves on multiple nonprofit boards, including CTR and SeaTac BMX. His involvement reflects his dedication to community service and creating opportunities for others through cycling.

    Cycling is also one of Anthony’s favorite ways to stay active. Outside of work and volunteering, he enjoys spending time with his daughter, cooking, and catching up on sleep.

  • A man with glasses and a beard smiling outdoors, wearing a gray Columbia jacket and a gray cap, standing in front of a lush bush with pink and white flowers.

    Dr. Edward Hernandez

    LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST

    Dr. Edward Hernandez is a licensed clinical psychologist who has had a wide ranging career that has focused on helping his patients reach their goals in the most fulfilling and healthy manner. He has extensive experience in the areas of crisis management, the management of chronic pain, assessment, and personal development. Dr. Hernandez was the director of the intake department at a psychiatric hospital and a therapist at The Winston School working with adolescents and families in San Diego prior to moving to Seattle in 2007. He was also the Lead Psychologist at a prominent work related injury and pain rehabilitation program, as well as the Clinic Director of several psychological practices in Washington. His clinical experience has allowed him to create a specialty where he can swiftly help his patients identify significant challenges in their lives and formulate clear and practical plans to reach their personal goals. 

    Dr. Edward Hernandez’s graduate education was at the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) in San Diego where he earned the degree of Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.). His dissertation was focused on understanding spirituality as a coping resource for people living with HIV. His undergraduate education was at the University of California, Irvine. His family is originally from Chile and he still has family there, as well as in Canada. Dr. Hernandez believes that having a healthy life includes balancing mind, body, and spirit. He and his wife are also avid mountain bikers and genuinely love the beauty and diversity of the Pacific Northwest.

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