--- title: The Next Lap Foundation | Our Story description: "Our Story: Discover how The Next Lap Foundation, in partnership with Bluestaq, supports elite United States athletes beyond the competition." image: https://www.thenextlap.org/hubfs/The%20Next%20Lap%20Foundation%20is%20Helping%20Athletes.jpeg --- [![Next Lap Foundation Logo - White Variation 1](https://www.thenextlap.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Next%20Lap%20Foundation%20Logo%20-%20White%20Variation%201.png?width=200&height=85&name=Next%20Lap%20Foundation%20Logo%20-%20White%20Variation%201.png)](https://www.thenextlap.org?hsLang=en) - [HOME](https://www.thenextlap.org?hsLang=en) - MISSION - [Our Story](https://www.thenextlap.org/our-story) - [The History](https://www.thenextlap.org/the-history?hsLang=en) - [Leadership](https://www.thenextlap.org/our-leadership?hsLang=en) - ATHLETES - [Current Class](https://www.thenextlap.org/current-athlete-class?hsLang=en) - [Alumni](https://www.thenextlap.org/alumni-class?hsLang=en) - [Apply for a Grant](https://www.thenextlap.org/apply-for-a-grant?hsLang=en) - [GET INVOLVED](https://www.thenextlap.org/get-involved?hsLang=en) - [A Growing Need](https://www.thenextlap.org/a-growing-need?hsLang=en) - [Sponsorships](https://www.thenextlap.org/sponsorships?hsLang=en) - [Partnerships](https://www.thenextlap.org/partnerships?hsLang=en) - [Donate](https://www.thenextlap.org/donate?hsLang=en) - [CONTACT](https://www.thenextlap.org/contact-us?hsLang=en) # OUR STORY ## **Where passion meets purpose.** The Next Lap Foundation was created to honor the extraordinary dedication of elite athletes who represent the United States on the world stage.  [OUR HISTORY](https://www.thenextlap.org/the-history?hsLang=en) [DONATE](https://www.thenextlap.org/donate?hsLang=en) ![American Star](https://www.thenextlap.org/hs-fs/hubfs/American%20Star.png?width=150&height=150&name=American%20Star.png "American Star") ## THE **INSPIRATION** Behind every medal, personal best, and moment of national pride is a story of sacrifice. Many athletes balance multiple jobs, cover travel and medical expenses out of pocket, and train without guaranteed financial support.  ### **Their determination inspired us to act. ** The Next Lap Foundation exists to close that gap and ensure athletes can focus on what they do best: training, competing, and representing our country with pride.  [DONATE TODAY](https://www.thenextlap.org/donate?hsLang=en) ![American Star](https://www.thenextlap.org/hs-fs/hubfs/American%20Star.png?width=150&height=150&name=American%20Star.png "American Star") ## HOW IT **STARTED** In 2023, Bluestaq began sponsoring U.S. athletes through its Space Unified event, an annual event that brings together competitors and supporters from across the nation.  Through those partnerships, one thing became clear. These athletes needed more than recognition during competition. They needed lasting support beyond the podium. ### From that realization, The Next Lap Foundation was born. Founded in partnership with Bluestaq, our mission is to provide financial stability so athletes can train, compete, and transition into life after sport with confidence and dignity.  [DONATE TODAY](https://www.thenextlap.org/donate?hsLang=en) ## The Next Lap Foundation is built on three guiding principles: Direct Support: Every athlete selected receives a no-strings-attached grant to use where it’s needed most, from rent and travel to training or equipment. Recognition Year-Round: There’s no such thing as an off-season when you’re chasing greatness. We celebrate and elevate our athletes throughout the year, not just during competition. Investing in the Future: We are building sustainability. Our long-term goal is to help athletes plan for life beyond competition through retirement support and financial resources.  ![The Next Lap Foundation Olympic Track](https://www.thenextlap.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Olympic%20Track%20Art-1.jpeg?width=1000&height=667&name=Olympic%20Track%20Art-1.jpeg "The Next Lap Foundation Olympic Track") ## LOOKING **AHEAD** Our vision is to expand The Next Lap Foundation’s reach each year, supporting more athletes and amplifying their stories.  Through partnerships, sponsorships, and the generosity of donors, we can ensure every competitor has what they need to thrive both on and off the field of play. Because true excellence isn’t defined by a single race, game, or medal. It continues through every next lap of life.  [DONATE TODAY](https://www.thenextlap.org/donate?hsLang=en) ## JOIN THE **MOVEMENT** Your support empowers athletes to pursue excellence and represent America with pride. **Ready to make an impact?** [DONATE TODAY >](https://www.thenextlap.org/donate?hsLang=en) [BECOME A SPONSOR >](https://www.thenextlap.org/sponsorships?hsLang=en) --- [![NLF White Logo](https://www.thenextlap.org/hubfs/NLF%20White%20Logo.png)](https://www.thenextlap.org?hsLang=en) The Next Lap Foundation 2 South Cascade Ave. Suite 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80903   **[Privacy Policy](https://www.thenextlap.org/privacy-policy?hsLang=en)** ### ABOUT - [Our Story](https://www.thenextlap.org/our-story) - [Our History](https://www.thenextlap.org/the-history?hsLang=en) - [A Growing Need](https://www.thenextlap.org/a-growing-need?hsLang=en) - [Leadership](https://www.thenextlap.org/our-leadership?hsLang=en) ### RESOURCES - [Contact](https://www.thenextlap.org/contact-us?hsLang=en) - [Donate](https://www.thenextlap.org/donate?hsLang=en) - [Sponsorships](https://www.thenextlap.org/sponsorships?hsLang=en) - [Partnerships](https://www.thenextlap.org/partnerships?hsLang=en) ### ATHLETES - [Apply for a Grant](https://www.thenextlap.org/apply-for-a-grant?hsLang=en) © 2026 The Next Lap Foundation. All rights reserved.