The Sports Creative

Coach Biel is one of our lead coaches at the Safe Space football program. Biel was shot in the head at close range while returning home to the community from his work. He survived but requires dental surgery, help us raise funds for Biel's operations!

SCUB Rio is a football for development program on Caracol Hill in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The program offers a Safe Space for children to play and develop supporting their physical, mental and social wellbeing. It is located in one of the most violence communities (favelas) in Rio.

As a result of the daily violence that affects the Caracol neighborhood in Complexo da Penha, one year ago, Gabriel 'Biel' da Silva (26 years old), was shot in the head as he entered the community, when coming home from work. Unknown to Biel there was an outbreak of violence in the area and he was shot in a case of mistaken identity. He was wearing his motorcycle helmet and the bullet passed through one cheek and exited the other, impacting his jawbone and teeth.

Fortunately, Biel survived and was rushed to emergency care. However, the injury has impacted Biel's life as his jaw and teeth were severely damaged.

We are seeking to raise a total of R$32,000 so that Biel can have two (potentially three) operations to rebuild his jaw and replace his broken teeth with implants and crowns.

Since the shooting, Biel has not been able to chew and the issue has been getting worse. These operations will allow Biel to return to a normal life, as well as helping to avoid long-term problems.

Importantly, it will also enable Biel to fully resume his coaching and the every day impact he has on the children of Caracol through football.

Hi! I’m Nicholas, one of the founders of Cycle for Soccer and the Fresh Biked Cookies.

In 2025, I’m taking on my 4th Five Boro Bike Tour with a purpose-driven goal: to support The Sports Creative’s mission of empowering communities through the beautiful game of football. Founded by my friend Joe, this incredible organisation shares a simple but powerful belief – that sport has the power to bring people together, break down barriers, and inspire positive change.

Inspired by the Cycle for Soccer initiative, which Joe and I launched together, I’ll be pushing myself to finish the tour in under three hours. Each mile I ride will contribute directly to The Sports Creative’s programs, providing young people around the world with access to sports, mentorship, and the chance to experience teamwork and resilience firsthand.

I’m asking for your support in this journey. Every donation brings us closer to creating spaces where sport can change lives and help individuals discover their potential. Let’s ride together for a world where every community can benefit from the unity, joy, and hope that sports bring!

Here’s a quick summary of key Five Boro Bike Tour stats for your story:

• Distance: 40 miles (64.4 km) through New York City’s five boroughs.

• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,200 to 1,500 feet (365 to 457 meters).

• Notable Climbs: Includes the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, a challenging ascent with sweeping city views.

• Participants: Over 32,000 cyclists join annually, making it the largest charitable bike ride in the U.S.