Today, at FRCC, we are proud to call ourselves a vibrant social riding club. Our main focus lies in organizing weekly group rides that cater to riders of all levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. As our club grows, we are thrilled to see an increasing interest in Gravel Road, Trail Riding, and Bike Packing. We have embraced these disciplines wholeheartedly and are committed to providing engaging experiences for our members in these areas. However, amidst our evolution, we have remained true to our racing roots. Our connection to racing remains strong, and we continue to attract racers who join us at the prestigious Waterford Hills Raceway. This integration of recreational and competitive cycling allows us to foster a diverse and supportive community that thrives on camaraderie and the love for two wheels.
How it all started… The origin of our name, the Flying Rhinos, is shrouded in mystery and whimsy. When we first set out to establish our team, we knew we wanted something unique and memorable that would set us apart from the typical sports franchises. As we brainstormed ideas, one of our team members jokingly suggested the name Flying Rhinos, envisioning a mighty rhinoceros soaring through the sky with grace and power. Little did we know that this seemingly absurd concept struck a chord with us all. The idea of a Flying Rhino embodied our belief in breaking boundaries, defying expectations, and exploring the uncharted skies of athleticism. Rather than following conventional paths, the Flying Rhinos would take flight and dare to dream big, leaving a lasting impact on the realm of sports. From that moment on, our team embraced the name, giving birth to a symbol that represents our relentless pursuit of greatness and our commitment to pushing boundaries in everything we do. We may not have ties to Greek mythology or Disney movies, but the Flying Rhinos serve as a reminder to approach life's challenges with a touch of humor, adventure, and a never-ending desire to soar above the rest.
The widely accepted story of the Flying Rhino Cycling Club begins in a cozy restaurant in Moscow, Idaho, where Jeff Noftz, the founder of the club, sat with an artist friend discussing his plans for a new cycling team. During their conversation, the idea of having an animal mascot came up, sparking Jeff's imagination. In response, the artist skillfully drew a quick sketch of a Rhino riding a bicycle. Captivated by the drawing, Jeff exclaimed that it looked like a Flying Rhino. Little did they know, that casual remark would become the club's enduring name. Today, the same sketch on a humble napkin serves as the beloved symbol of the club, proudly displayed at cycling events throughout the Midwest. Established in 1982 in Clarkston, MI, the FRCC was initially focused on racing but has since evolved into a vibrant and inclusive bicycle community. While still deeply rooted in their love for cycling, the club now encompasses riders of all levels and aims to promote the joy of cycling in all its forms. The Flying Rhino Cycling Club remains committed to the spirit of having fun while embracing the challenges and triumphs of the cycling world.