--- title: The Next Lap Foundation | The History description: "The History: Explore the history of The Next Lap Foundation and how it began supporting elite U.S. athletes year-round." 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?hsLang=en) - [The History](https://www.thenextlap.org/the-history) - [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 HISTORY From a spark of inspiration to a growing movement, The Next Lap Foundation was established to ensure that every elite U.S. athlete, regardless of ability, has the support they deserve.  [OUR STORY](https://www.thenextlap.org/our-story?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 **BEGINNING** In 2023, Bluestaq began sponsoring elite athletes from the United States through the Space Unified event, an annual celebration of excellence, teamwork, and national pride.  During those first partnerships, one truth stood out: many of these athletes were carrying the financial weight of their dreams on their own. That realization inspired the creation of The Next Lap Foundation.  [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") ## THE **LAUNCH** In 2025, The Next Lap Foundation officially launched as a nonprofit dedicated to providing direct financial support to U.S athletes.  With help from Bluestaq and its partners, the foundation awarded its first round of athlete grants, helping recipients cover critical training, travel, and living expenses.  [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") ## **TODAY** AND **BEYOND** Now entering its next chapter, The Next Lap Foundation continues to expand its reach through new partnerships and sponsorships tied to Space Unified and beyond.  Each year, the foundation aims to support more athletes, invest in their futures, and keep their stories alive long after competition ends.  [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?hsLang=en) - [Our History](https://www.thenextlap.org/the-history) - [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.