ABOUT US
The Clifton Cargill Jr. Foundation is a non-profit organization that is committed to helping the next generation of cyclists become successful riders, from their first ride on training wheels to their first time trial. We offer Learn-To-Ride programming and safety clinics for children as young as three years old, in addition to advanced athletic conditioning for junior level cyclists between the ages of 13 and 18.
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At the Clifton Cargill Jr. Foundation, we believe that strong minds, bodies, and relationships are essential for building resilience and confidence. That is why we incorporate holistic healing techniques into our riding curriculum. Our goal is to ensure that our youth participants are equipped with the necessary skills to tackle life's challenges as they transition into adulthood.
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Our holistic activities include mindfulness, journaling, yoga, and sharing circles, which reinforce positive peer relationships and healthy coping skills. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment where our riders can grow and thrive in all areas.
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Join us at the Clifton Cargill Jr. Foundation and become part of a community that is dedicated to empowering the next generation of cyclists.
Our
Mission
The Clifton Cargill Jr. Foundation’s mission is to empower at-risk youth to take ownership of their physical and mental wellbeing through cycling.
KAIDIAN BOUBACAR, MSW
Kaidian is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in her community. She has extensive experience working with children and families in various roles over the past seven years, including mentoring, advocating, and managing cases. Through her work, she has developed a deep understanding of the complex issues that families face, and she is fully committed to helping them overcome these challenges with confidence.
After the tragic loss of her father to gun violence, Kaidian embarked on a journey of self-healing. She shared her experience with others to inspire them to prioritize their own care. After interning with the School Board of Alachua County's System of Care in 2022, she recognized the need for a community program that combines holistic healing activities with a rhythmic activity to promote self-regulation and increase resilience in children. Thus, the Clifton Cargill Jr. Foundation was created to honor her father's legacy and promote mental well-being among young people.
OUR PROGRAMS
TRAINING
WHEELS
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Learn-to-Ride: Introductory riding lessons
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Bike Safety Clinics
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Helmet Fitting
NEXTGEN JUNIOR
CYCLING
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Junior Level Athletic Training for Road Cycling and Mountain Biking
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Bicycle construction and mechanics training
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Mentorship
Wellness Toolkit
(Offered as a supplement to Junior Cycling)
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Holistic Activities led by wellness coach
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Family Friendly Riding Group
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Community Resource Bank
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Parent Support Group
THE MAN BEHIND THE NAME
CLIFTON CARGILL JR.
Clifton Cargill Jr., also known as Dutty Rida (duh-tee rye-da), was born in Jamaica and raised in Kingston's Southside community. Instead of attending traditional schooling, Cargill pursued a welding apprenticeship, obtaining several welding certifications that made him a master of the craft.
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Cargill's love for cycling and welding skills combined when he created his first "chopper bike," which was a child's bicycle adapted for adult use. This allowed him to enter cycling communities and bypass the financial barrier to entry. Despite others laughing at the bike's construction, it was designed to be powerful and suited Cargill well. Despite the bike's design causing a "waddle," Cargill challenged some of the best cyclists on the road, all of whom had much more advanced equipment than his own. He bested them all and even earned the opportunity to race against the star of Jamaica’s National Cycling Team, Peter Aldridge.
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After his impressive performance against some of the best cyclists in Jamaica, Cargill continued to compete and gain recognition. By early 90’s Clifton “Dutty Rida” Cargill Jr. was a rising star on the Jamaican cycling circuit, a professional cyclist competing for the national team and training rigorously to accomplish his goals of becoming the Jamaican National Champion and Olympic qualifying athlete.
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Although he never achieved his dream of riding in the Olympics, Cargill used his platform to inspire and support others. He advocated for safe practices for cyclists in his communities, and founded a cycling club called the “Dutty Ridas” based out of Miami, Florida.
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​Clifton Cargill Jr.'s legacy serves as a reminder that passion, determination, and hard work can overcome even the greatest of obstacles. Despite facing untold challenges and ridicule, he persevered and became a force to be reckoned with. He has left an indelible mark on the world and we hope that his story will inspire others to look beyond their circumstances and pursue their dreams with confidence.
