Bike4BorregoKids: A Fundraiser for Local High School Students

Sylvia Maas Rides 3,500 Miles to Raise

This June, Soroptimist Sylvia Maas sets off on a 3,500-mile solo bike race across America—all to raise scholarship funds for graduating seniors at Borrego Springs High School. The race is the Trans Am Bike Race, one of the toughest and oldest self-supported bikepacking races in the country, stretching from Astoria, Oregon to Washington, D.C.

But Sylvia’s not just doing it for the ride. She’s hoping to raise enough through her Bike 4 Borrego Kids campaign to fund at least 10 scholarships of $1,000 each, helping local seniors take their next step toward education, training, and a brighter future.

Why This Ride Matters

Borrego Springs students face real barriers after graduation. With no college or trade school nearby, the closest opportunities are over two hours away. Transportation, housing, and everyday expenses quickly become roadblocks. For many, attending a four-year college—where housing is provided—is the best option, but even that comes with serious challenges.

Sylvia’s goal is simple and powerful:

Give each scholarship recipient $1,000 right before they start school to help with gas money, school supplies, dorm essentials, or whatever helps them begin strong.

In the past three years, she’s already raised enough to award 22 scholarships, thanks to the generosity of the Borrego Springs community and supporters beyond.

How the Ride Works

• Race: Trans Am Bike Race

• Start: June 1, 2025 in Astoria, Oregon

• Finish: Washington, D.C.

• Distance: About 3,500–4,200 miles

• Style: Self-supported—Sylvia carries all her gear, arranges her own food and lodging, and rides 8–10 hours a day for a full month

• Fundraising Goal: Support at least 10 students this year

How to Help Borrego’s Seniors

Donate directly to Bike 4 Borrego Kids here:

borregosoroptimist.com/bike-4-borrego-kids

• 100% of donations go to the scholarship fund
• Managed through Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs
• Donations are tax-deductible, and receipts are provided
• Every dollar helps a student pursue continuing education—whether college or trade school

Watch for Sylvia on the Road

Sylvia is already training on the roads around Borrego Springs with her fully loaded bike—about 65 lbs of gear. If you see her riding, give a wave or honk of support. And if you love Borrego and believe in building a strong future for its young people, consider making a donation.

This campaign isn’t just about one rider or one race. It’s about investing in the next generation of Borrego Springs.

Learn More About Borrego Springs