New League Staff: Meet Kelly Gray

Meet Kelly Gray, the League’s Membership Coordinator! This League staffer first came aboard during the 2024 National Bike Summit earlier this year, and we’re excited to finally share his official introduction. Kelly brings a wealth of experience in marketing and broadcast operations to our growing team, along with over two decades of biking and commuting in the DC area. With Kelly on board, we’re looking forward to a bright future full of big ideas, awesome merch, and, of course, dedicated support for our 200,000+ strong membership base. Welcome to the team, Kelly!

What’s your first memory of riding a bike?

My parents bought me a little bike with 16” wheels from a department store when I was maybe six years old. It was blue. I couldn’t wait until we got home to ride it.

What does your bike journey look like? What got you into biking as an adult?

Everyone in my family biked, so I definitely rode a lot growing up. I rode on the college team at the University of Texas, but my riding dropped off significantly after I graduated. Say what you will about Lance Armstrong, but after he won the Tour in 1999, it reinvigorated my passion for cycling, and I have been riding regularly ever since. 

Tell us a bit about your background and what excites you about coordinating membership at the League.

I worked in media for many years and the opportunity to join the League happened to come along at a really good time. It’s wonderful to be part of an organization that is actively supporting safe bicycling at a time when it’s so important to do so. I’m really proud that the League is continuing to demonstrate how beneficial bicycling can be for individuals and for entire communities.

What are some of your favorite routes and trails to explore?

One of my favorite mountain bike trails is almost in my backyard: The Cabin John Trail in Montgomery County, Maryland. It’s easy to get to, and within minutes, you’re next to the creek, listening to all the birds as you pedal up and down the hills.

What bike are you riding now and what inspires you about cycling? 

I have too many bikes, but my favorite is a 20-year-old steel Rivendell Rambouillet. I can commute on it, tour on it, and even tackle gravel roads or a dirt path. It does it all, and it just keeps on going. It looks really old school, but rides like a dream. As far as inspiration, every day you can ride your bike is like a gift as far as I’m concerned. When the weather and the route and a few other factors all align, even a simple commuting ride can feel transformative.