From South Central City Kid to King of the Criterium: FINDING GOOD with Justin Williams - PART TWO

There's no denying the remarkability of Justin William's story. The professional cyclist from L.A.'s toughest neighborhood inherited his Belizean father's love of cycling. The sport kept him insulated from the infamous street life of South Central, where 1 in 3 kids wind up in jail or dead before they reach adulthood. We had the privilege of sitting down with Justin in his hometown of Los Angeles for a fascinating discussion, and explored all the ways his life perfectly embodies the tenets of FINDING GOOD. We kicked off our conversation by exploring Justin's early life in South Central - the notorious neighborhood of greater Los Angeles that boasts one of the highest crime rates in the country - where he grew up in a large family and faced the challenges of living in a community heavily influenced by gang culture. Despite the odds, Justin found solace in sports, particularly cycling, which he initially discovered through his father's Belizean heritage of possessing a passion for the sport.Justin shared a memorable story about a grueling 50-mile ride led by his father that served as a pivotal moment in his cycling journey. This experience not only tested his physical limits but also instilled in him a sense of determination and resilience. We discussed how his competitive nature and stubbornness have fueled his success in cycling, especially when many young athletes give up after failing to make it to the world tour. As we delved deeper into the conversation, Justin highlighted the importance of community and support, especially in the wake of recent fires in Southern California. He spoke about the incredible efforts within the cycling community to come together and help those affected, showcasing the power of unity and compassion.We also touched on the broader landscape of American cycling, discussing the challenges and opportunities for young riders. Justin emphasized that cycling doesn't have to be limited to the Tour de France or UCI world tours; it can encompass various forms of racing that are more accessible and exciting for fans.Throughout our discussion, Justin's passion for the sport and his commitment to giving back to the community becomes quite clear. He articulated his mission to create opportunities for underrepresented riders and to build a supportive environment within the cycling world.This episode is a testament to the idea that success is not just about personal achievements but also about uplifting others and making a positive impact. Join us as we explore Justin's journey, his insights on resilience, and his vision for the future of cycling. Enjoy!