The Gary Holdiness Cycling Fund was established under the Natchez Trace Parkway Association over 9 years ago to honor the memory of Dr. Gary Holdiness by perpetuating his love for cycling the Natchez Trace Parkway and to make it a safe environment for cyclists.

​

Under the Association, the GHCF worked to study a number of proposals to make the parkway a safer riding environment for cyclists. The funds raised helped finance projects approved by the parkway to increase motorists' awareness of cyclists, as well as promote projects to encourage cycling on the parkway.

​

In 2018 the GHCF became its own partner with the National Parks Service as Natchez Trace Cycling, a 501C non-profit organization. By doing so, the board is composed of cyclists from Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. 

​

Dr. Gary Holdiness of Kosciusko, Mississippi was an avid cyclist, who combined his love for the sport with a passion for the Natchez Trace Parkway. He spent numerous hours on the parkway finding relaxation from his medical practice and encouraging others to enjoy the park as a national treasure. While riding on the parkway in 2012, Dr. Holdiness lost his life due to an accident involving an automobile. His family and friends created the Gary Holdiness Cycling Fund to continue his work of promoting the recreational use of the parkway and to make it a safer environment for others.