06/17/2026
Dear Harlem Skyscraper Family, Community, and Friends,
For 53 years, through every twist and turn, the Harlem Skyscraper Cycling Classic has stood tall. Founded in 1973 by NYPD Officer David Walker, this race has always been more than just a cycling event—it is a Father’s Day tradition, a celebration of Black joy, and the beating heart of our community at Marcus Garvey Park.
We have never had to send an email like this before. Today, we are coming to you with a transparent heart and an urgent request.
We were just hit with an unexpected and massive hurdle. Because New York City is hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, municipal resources are stretched to their absolute limits. The NYPD informed us that due to these unprecedented city-wide security demands, they are completely unable to provide the street safety barriers that protect our riders, our children, and our spectators.
In the face of this, we had two choices: cancel the 2026 race, or fight to keep the tradition alive. We chose to fight.
The NYPD has granted us a special allowance to subcontract the safety barrier operations to a private, third-party vendor. While we have successfully secured a contractor to ensure the race can safely move forward, this last-minute logistical shift has hit us with an unexpected $7,500.00 bill for emergency materials and labor.
As a non-profit community organization, we do not have these emergency funds sitting in reserve.
This is where we need you. We cannot cross this finish line alone.
We are launching an emergency appeal to raise $7,500.00 to cover these critical safety barriers. Whether you can give $10, $100, or $1,000, every single dollar goes directly to the physical barriers that keep our neighborhood safe and our wheels turning this Sunday.
How You Can Help Right Now:
Donate: Click the link below to contribute directly to https://teamunityinc.org/hscc/donate-hscc/
Share: Forward this email to five friends, or share our post on social media. Word of mouth is our greatest asset.
Sponsor: If you own a local business and want to help us bridge this gap, please reach out to us directly for emergency sponsor recognition.
[DONATE NOW TO SAVE THE SKYSCRAPER]https://teamunityinc.org/hscc/donate-hscc/
Officer David Walker started this race to bring people together and uplift Harlem’s youth. We refuse to let a logistical hurdle break a 54-year legacy. Harlem doesn't quit, and with your help, the Skyscraper won't either.
Thank you for standing with us, for protecting our riders, and for keeping the spirit of Harlem alive.
With deep gratitude and determination,
If you need to speak to me prior to your donation, please use the contact information below.
Richard Cox
Director; UNITYSports Productions
A Division of Team Unity Inc.
A 501 (c) Public Charity
347 948 6479--office
917-699-6196--mobile
[email protected]
www.teamunityinc.org
Team Unity Elevating communities through Partnership, Education and Action. A society where the Social Determinants of Health are addressed;ensuring everyon ...
