The Michael Schwaid Bicyclist of the Year Award honors individuals in the Tampa Bay bicycling community who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to the cycling lifestyle. This award recognizes those who go above and beyond to promote bicycling in their communities, advocate for safer streets, and inspire others through leadership, service, and passion for cycling.

Presented by the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) and the Bike/Walk Tampa Bay Coalition, with the generous support of the Schwaid family, the award celebrates the lasting impact of individuals who embody Michael Schwaid’s dedication to cycling, community, and safety. Each year, recipients are added to a perpetual bronze plaque displayed at the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) at the University of South Florida. Special thanks are extended to the Schwaid family for their continued support of this award.

About Michael R. Schwaid

Known by his friends and fellow bicyclists as “Michael on Bicycle,” Michael R. Schwaid was an inspiration to bicyclists everywhere. He always had a smile to share and a passionate word to say about bicycle safety and his experiences in the saddle. On March 30, 2016, while commuting by bike, Michael was struck by a drunk motorist with a blood alcohol level more than three times the legal limit, beginning a long and challenging recovery. Lesser known is that it was his unwavering determination to reclaim his place on the road that drove his recovery—and with the help of his family, he succeeded. In 2017, the first year of the award, the Bike/Walk Tampa Bay Coalition presented Michael with the Bicyclist of the Year Award in recognition of his extraordinary courage, resilience, and role as a model for other bicyclists. Following his passing from natural causes on September 27, 2017, the Bike/Walk Tampa Bay Board of Directors, with the support of the Schwaid family, named the award the Michael R. Schwaid Bicyclist of the Year Award in his honor.

2025 Winner: Matthew Dockins

Matt Dockins contributes meaningfully to the broader transportation and cycling community both through his mountain bike racing and through his professional work as an engineer. In his engineering role, he applies firsthand cyclist experience to the design and improvement of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. His perspective as both a transportation professional and a competitive cyclist enables him to evaluate roadway safety with nuance—understanding rider vulnerabilities, sight line needs, turning behaviors, and network connections that support safe multimodal travel.

Past Winners

Brent Buffington (2024)

Brent Buffington’s dedication to advocacy and outreach has strengthened bicycling safety across Tampa Bay. Through leadership, helmet distribution, and inclusive group rides, he has built a welcoming community for riders of all levels.

Stephen Barone (2023)

Stephen Barone leads with humility, organizing rides that promote safety, teamwork, and respect on the road. His cycling-driven fundraising has raised nearly $60,000 for causes like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Julie Henning (2022)

After surviving a life‑altering crash, Julie Henning transformed her recovery into powerful advocacy for bicyclist safety. She now uses her voice and lived experience to push for safer streets across Florida.

Bob Griendling (2021)

A longtime bicycle advocate in St. Petersburg, Bob Griendling has served on the BPAC and led the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club. Following a serious crash, he continues to champion bicyclists through writing, advocacy, and perseverance.

Pauline Dockins (2020)

Pauline Dockins inspires others to ride at any pace and face challenges head-on, even during her battle with leukemia. Through recovery and fundraising, she has uplifted countless people from the saddle.

David Guttenplan (2019)

An elite racer and civil engineer, David Guttenplan blends technical expertise with lived experience to improve street safety. After surviving a near-fatal crash, he turned his comeback into advocacy and public service.

Steve Brown (2018)

Steve Brown founded the Chain Gang Cycling group to build community, encourage safe riding, and support charitable causes. Known for his hands-on dedication, he is a tireless advocate for safer and more connected cycling routes.