The Community Says:
Sami uses cycling to challenge himself, to have fun, and to help people. Sami came to Arlington from Morocco, and speaks English, French and Arabic. Despite the fact that English is the third language he began learning, he is a great writer and tells stories of his crashes, adventures, and observations.
Sami joined the Phoenix Bike Shop a year ago, and since then has built and fixed bikes for his sister, uncle, dad, and friends. Sami has helped countless friends and even strangers repair and improve their bikes.
Sami takes a leadership role in Phoenix Bikes and helps welcome all new shop members - teaching mechanics and encouraging people to ride. He makes the bike shop a place for youth to discover new things and find new friends.
Sami currently rides a road bike off-road, and is fixing up a green bmx to keep learning tricks on. Whatever the weather, whatever the terrain, you never hear Sami complain. He always keeps riding, working every harder, trying new roads or tricks, and smiling.
Judge's comment: "This 15 year old epitomizes the Phoenix Bikes program's mission and vision. Sami has taken on and met some of the challenges the program offers and with determination continues to learn. Sami's developing leaderships skills have helped him teach bike mechanic skills to other teens, provide assistance to customers and help to provide affordable bikes to the community, his family and friends."
Judge's comment: "He is a dedicated, hard working volunteer who shares his enthusiasm with those around him."
Judge's comment: "Sami is obviously a great candidate for this award. He truly stands out as a a young person who is committed to cycling and for sharing his enthusiasm with others. He definitely wins the most extraordinary Youth Cyclist Award!"
Judge's comment: "I grew up in South Arlington among a bunch of kids from different countries, so I have a soft spot for kids like Sami. But what sets Sami apart is not only that he's turned his whole family onto the joys of biking, but he's built them all bikes, and not only that, he volunteers at Phoenix and spreads the cycling virus even further among kids. Sami is my kind of Arlingtonian. Bien fait, mon ami."
