GoTriangle recognizes cycling heroes and promoters who cut greenhouse gases in the Triangle

GoTriangle recognizes cycling heroes and promoters who cut greenhouse gases in the Triangle  

They did it for fun. They did it for the planet. GoTriangle is pleased to announce the winners of the Golden Spoke awards, recognizing those whose quiet legwork helped cut carbon dioxide greenhouse gases in the Triangle.  

As the lead agency for the Triangle’s free, grant-funded Sustainable Travel Services program that works with partners to promote cleaner air and less congestion, GoTriangle each year hosts the Golden Modes awards, from which the Golden Spoke awards arose. The June event celebrates Triangle employers, organizations and commuters who use sustainable travel options in their daily lives and who promote it in their company cultures. This year, the Golden Spoke honored outstanding achievements in cycling by individuals and the business community in the following categories: 

Golden Spoke for Business went to Crank Arm Brewing Company in Raleigh for going above and beyond to promote cycling in the

community. Crank Arm offers weekly rides open to those of all abilities, supports Oaks & Spokes, Triangle Spokes Group, Water for Good and City of Raleigh events and features cycling events of its own throughout the year.  

“We are very proud to be recognized for our support of cycling in the community,” said Crank Arm Co-owner and Co-founder Adam M. Eckhardt. “Crank Arm Brewing is not just cycling themed; cycling is in our DNA. We believe bicycles are the perfect mode of transportation. We will continue to encourage the sustainable use of bicycles as the Triangle grows.” 

Runners up for the Golden Spoke for Business award were Extreme Networks  Inc., followed by Ponysaurus Brewing Company in Durham and by The Daily Beer Bar in Durham. 

Golden Spoke for Cyclists went to Brenton Leanhardt, a Red Hat employee, who biked more than 5,743 miles, which resulted in the reduction of 5,547 pounds of greenhouse gases since joining GoTriangle’s GoPerks program years ago.  

“I love my commute,” Leanhardt said. “I've tweaked it over the years to pass through some of my favorite neighborhoods in Raleigh.  It's one of the reasons I love coming to the office.” 

Rising Stars and Gold, Silver and Bronze Achievers 

The event also showcased “Rising Stars,” 12 individuals who began tracking their bike rides since New Year’s Day 2023 and together cut 1,498 pounds of greenhouse gases. And GoTriangle presented  Gold, Silver and Bronze Achievement Coins to individuals who each reduced greenhouse gases by 10 tons, 5 tons or 2 tons through their commuting choices. 

Best Workplaces for Commuters 

GoTriangle also revealed 29 workplaces in the Triangle that received the designation of “Best Workplaces for Commuters.” Those workplaces applied to a nationwide program that requires businesses meet specific levels of action and participation in sustainable commuting to receive the designation. GoTriangle is one of the workplaces.