Written by:Cynthia Lou

In true soul and unified community spirit, the Bahati Foundation launched its Pro Cycling Team to the open arms of nearly 1,000 fans in a unique blend of Hollywood VIP bling and cycling fanatics.

But it was not all about the pomp and circumstance.

“If you don’t cry tonight, man, you don’t have a heart,” Bahati shared during a pre-Launch interview.

Catch the interview here:
PART 1:
PART 2:
PART 3:

Crowds packed the Nokia Theater in Downtown Los Angeles, eagerly awaiting the team presentation and festivities.

Bicycle.net caught up with some of the riders before the presentation:

The evening’s show began with an introduction by Eric Smart, CEO of the Bahati Foundation, leading into choral and marching band performances by Crenshaw High School, Bahati’s alma mater.

The Crenshaw High Choir’s “call and response” style of singing and dancing – marked by a smaller group of choir members performing while the outlying choir members hooted and cheered encouragement – was representative of the kind of support the Bahati Foundation has grown for its Pro Cycling team. Watching the event’s very enthusiastic local fan base, the support was palpable as the wily hometown kid gave back to his community and beyond.

Call and Response:

“I’m so proud of him,” said local Southern California racer Melanie Moon Phillips. “We remember when he was just a kid, winning all the races. Now to see how much he’s achieved and how he’s giving back to the community, it’s really cool to see.”

Videos produced in partnership with Endure Media shared some of Rahsaan’s journey from Compton, CA, in a spirit that everyone can make a difference and “Give Back”, the Foundation’s motto.

Television sportscaster and Tour de France announcer Craig Hummer introduced the 17-man team, including Australia’s Hilton Clarke and Nathan O’Neil, former ProTour rider Jason Donald, former Rock Racing team mate Cesar Grajales, and the team’s latest addition Floyd Landis.

An emotional Rahsaan shared his high school vision of “Showing up to [his high school] with a UHaul full of new instruments,” knowing that when he was growing up it was the music and cycling that kept him out of trouble. Now, over 10 years later, he will see his dream realized.

Bahati being introduced:

One of two special-edition, custom-painted Cannondale bikes were auctioned off at the event.

WIth 5 wins and a recent podium sweep at the Merco Cycling Classic Criterium on March 6, 2010, the Bahati Foundation is poised to make a huge impact both on and off the bike this year.

Photos by: VeloImages.com