We’re beyond excited to announce that Charon Smith, longtime friend, teammate, and undeniable force in the cycling community, is officially joining Eliel Cycling as our Champion in Residence.
Charon has been with us since the beginning. Back in 2014, his Surf City Cycling Team made the switch to Eliel, and from that moment on, we’ve shared the road. Charon has always been intentional with the partnerships he chooses, aligning himself only with brands that embody his values: performance, positivity, and community. Those values are the same ones we live by at Eliel, which makes this next chapter all the more meaningful.
For more than a decade, Charon has brought his unmatched energy, heart, and dedication to Eliel and to the sport of cycling. With over 20 years in the peloton, he’s proven himself time and time again, not just as a decorated champion, but as an ambassador of joy, encouragement, and perseverance. Known as “Mr. Positivity” and “The People’s Champ,” Charon has a way of lighting up every race, every ride, and every gathering he’s part of. As co-owner of the Methods to Winning team, he continues to lead, race, and spread the stoke everywhere he goes.
🏆 A Champion’s Résumé (Highlights Only!)
- 2x National Criterium Champion (2021, 2023) 🇺🇸
- 7x California State Criterium Champion (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2024)
- 6x Winner of the historic Manhattan Beach Grand Prix
- 4x Winner of the Dana Point Grand Prix: 'Was' SoCal’s largest one-day race
- 3x Green Jersey Winner at the San Dimas Stage Race (Top Sprinter)
- Overall Winner, La Verne Stage Race (2022)
- Podium appearances at National and State Championships across more than a decade
…and that’s just scratching the surface.
Charon’s list of accomplishments is long, but what really sets him apart is his relentless positivity and the way he lifts everyone around him. Whether he’s sprinting for the win or cheering from the sidelines, he’s a true champion in every sense of the word.
We’re proud to officially welcome Charon Smith as Eliel Cycling’s Champion in Residence; a role that celebrates not only his racing success, but also the passion, leadership, and heart he brings to our community.
👉 Stay tuned for more as Charon kicks off this new journey with us, we have some exciting projects ahead!