It was 1998 when the Wenatchee Valley Velo got its start. A group of dedicated riders were interested in more camaraderie, some cool clothing, and spreading their enthusiasm for the sport of cycling. The first cycling club in the valley, the “Wenatchee Wheelman” had disbanded, and there were more and more cyclists searching for identity on the local roads and trails. The idea grew with a couple of meetings and soon a jersey design was produced with seed money from local sponsors. The first edition of our annual race was held in 2000, and it put us in the “official club” category with the USCF.  The development since then has been steady, and we now have established our identity here in the Wenatchee Valley, with regular group rides and events.  What started as a cool jersey soon blossomed into a full cycling kit, and the race blossomed into the full Wenatchee Stage Race by 2004. Our race has become one of the premier events on the Washington racing calendar, and our kit is recognized around the region. Our goal of supporting junior development has finally come into reality with a junior “Velo Team” and a coach. Our monthly meetings have also expanded into social rides and gatherings celebrating our beautiful valley, and the club now offers opportunities for cycling camaraderie on many levels.