In true Colorado spirit, community support and a love for the outdoors came together in a big way thanks to Phil Long Ford in Denver. When local mountain bike teams from Lakewood and Wheat Ridge High Schools outgrew their aging and undersized team trailer, the dealership answered the call with generosity that will impact student-athletes for years to come.
Coach Greg Powers, who has volunteered with the teams for four years, described the familiar struggle of loading gear after races—especially during Colorado’s unpredictable weather. From pop-up tents and tables to coolers, sandbags, and bike repair stands, the old trailer just couldn’t handle the growing needs of the teams. After years of cramming and improvising, the time had come for something bigger.
That’s when Greg reached out to longtime friend Kevin Shaughnessy, President and CEO of Phil Long Ford Dealerships. What happened next is a testament to the power of relationships and community-driven businesses. Kevin didn’t just find a trailer—he offered up one that Phil Long Ford of Denver had used for transporting large auto parts, and then raised the bar even higher. Kevin and his team promised to wrap the trailer with custom graphics and donate it outright to the teams.
“Umm… yes please,” was Greg’s enthusiastic response.
Fast forward to today, and the Lakewood and Wheat Ridge mountain bike teams now have a game-changing addition to their programs. With room to properly store tents, tables, coolers, and even bike trainers for warmups, the new trailer will streamline race-day logistics and help the teams continue their tradition of excellence—not just on the course, but also in volunteerism, trail building, and academics.
Both teams have proudly earned “All Star Team” honors—Lakewood in Division 1 for 2024 and Wheat Ridge in Division 3 for 2023—not necessarily for dominating races, but for embodying teamwork and community values. These accolades reflect the spirit that Phil Long Ford’s donation perfectly supports.
“We will have the coolest team trailer at every race, hands down,” said Greg.
With plans to build out the interior, including custom racks, shelving, and even a possible kitchen prep area, the trailer will become a mobile HQ and gathering point for riders, coaches, and parents alike. Volunteers are already being recruited to help with the build-out to make the vision a reality. Anyone interested in lending a hand is encouraged to get involved and support these outstanding teams.
Huge thanks to Phil Long Ford and Kevin Shaughnessy, President and CEO, for showing what it means to support local athletes and communities. Next race season, when you see that eye-catching trailer roll in, know it represents not just a donation—but dedication to Lakewood and Wheat Ridge High Schools, teamwork, and Colorado pride.
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