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From the Ground Up

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From the Ground Up

Sweet Protection is proud to partner up with From the Ground Up project, providing helmets and eyewear to the team.


From the Ground Up started as a project intended to inspire cyclists of all ability levels to step outside of their comfort zones. In it’s 4th season, Ryan Petry and our team athlete, Alexey Vermeulen, have come to realize how important the power of community is when taking on monumental challenges.


Keep reading to see what the founders have to say about the project and how the team did at SBT GRVL.

“We started this project because we believed the pathways of entry to the sport were changing after the pandemic. Our goal was to find a way to breakdown barriers through relatability as more people entered the sport for new reasons.”



- Alexey Vermeulen

SBT GRVL

For season 4, FTGU arranged three training camps in Memphis, Bentonville, and Gunnison to help the team prepare for their goal: the SBT GRVL (Steamboat Gravel) race in August. Three out of the four team members finished the race, and we couldn't be prouder of what they all achieved in just six months!


“When setting goals it's important to be realistic. Some may say that taking someone who has never ridden a bike more than a couple miles and challenging them to complete a 125 mile race with 10,500ft of climbing in less than 6 months is a bit of a stretch, but that is where FTGU project comes in. On SBT GRVL 2024, 4 brave souls proved what is possible with a rock solid plan, unwavering commitment, and a support system that believed they could. Congratulations to season 4 riders Richard, Lou, Brandilee, and Kristen on their incredible rides, we can't wait to see what they conquer next!”


- Ryan and Alexey

“FTGU has given me a new viewpoint from which I enjoy racing. I get to be competitive on race day, but also build community in my sport and have a positive impact way beyond my results.”

— Alexey Vermeulen

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Do you want to be a part of the FTGU family or follow them on the road? Have a look at their sites!

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