I have known Mateen for years. He has attended our Junior Cyclocross and Track Camps as well as Cyclocross clinics throughout the years. I have seen him grow up from a fast kid with a bike to a young man with a dream to encourage more Black People, Indigenous People, and People of Color (BIPOC) to ride bikes.

I recently sat down with Mateen for a virtual interview. Keep scrolling to give it a read.

–  Joel Fletcher (OBRA Junior Racing Director)

Name? Mateen Ky’Ray Richey

Age? 18 years old

Where are you located? North East Portland Oregon 

How did you first get into bike racing? As an 8-year-old kid, I went to the Blazers Boys and Girls Club. The program B.I.K.E saw me every day for the next couple of weeks and challenged me to ride laps around the club while not putting my foot on the ground….I’ve been with the program ever since.

What is your favorite thing about bike racing? My favorite thing about cycling is the challenges you face and how you stack up against them. One day you might not do well, but you always have another chance to test your skills. It’s all about perseverance.

What piece of advice would you give to others interested in racing? Put one foot in front of the other and give it your best shot. If you believe in yourself then you can do it!

Who has been most influential in your bike racing career? I have to give that to my coach John Benenate and to the people who have done well by the B.I.K.E Program. It’s definitely helped a lot for my development as a cyclist and person.

What can we do as a community to take care of our BIPOC friends while new people of color are joining the sport?  It doesn’t have to be anything big. You don’t have to give away a $10,000 bike. Words of advice and support mean more. Welcome and surround us with love. It takes a village. Everyone needs to buy into this plan!