Hyattsville’s Arrow Bicycle has sponsored an annual race to raise money for the Prince George’s County Special Olympics since they went into business four-and-a-half years ago.
Over 500 racers from the mid-Atlantic area attended the fourth Hyattsville Cyclocross race on Oct. 7, according to race Director Eric Griffin. The previous races raised over $15,000.
A lot of what Arrow sells is commuter oriented gear that would allow someone to use a bike year round. When they first opened, they carried very specialized racing equipment that did not sell as well in the area, according to co-owner Chris Militello.
“Our big competition is Circuit City or Target.” Militello said. “Why would you buy a Wii or something like that to do virtual cycling when you can buy a bike and it’s so beautiful in this area and there are so many bike paths?”
Arrow also provides a full line of service including repairs and fittings.
“They are always very helpful,” said Elissa Jerome, a Hyattsville resident who bought equipment from Arrow so she could commute with her bike.
Arrow was involved in choosing the type of bike racks that are being installed throughout Hyattsville, according to Militello.
“If we measured success by dollars through the front door, people would look at our business and say our success is pretty low, but we are very, very active in the Hyattsville community and the Special Olympics,” Militello said. “That’s our great success.”