Middletown cycling club opens registration for spring mountain biking teams – Middletown Press

MIDDLETOWN — The CT Cycling Advancement Program, a three-time USA Cycling Center of Excellence program, is forming youth/teen mountain bike teams throughout the state.

The excursions, organized by the Middletown-based agency, will begin practices April 1, weather and trail conditions permitting, and continue for at least 10 weeks, or through mid-June, according to a press release. They will provide the opportunity for young riders of all skill levels to flourish in a supportive team-based environment, learn bike handling and racing skills as well as leadership and responsibility, and travel to local and regional cycling events.

Interested girls and boys age 9 to 18 and their parents can learn about the regional teams forming in each community by visiting ctcyclingadvancement.org. CCAP’s mountain bike program give kids of all riding levels access to the sport of cycling, the release added.

“Youth mountain biking programs have been sprouting all over the country, because they provide a great, safe pathway to cycling as well as local trail systems,” CCAP’s Executive Director Jed Kornbluh said in a prepared statement. “Kids in our program are learning teamwork, making new friends, and gaining self-discipline and confidence all while riding their bikes.”

Young riders will improve their riding skills, flourish in a positive team-based setting, and together explore local trails and regional cycling events, CCAP said. Racing is not required. Fees for the spring session are $275 per rider. All registered riders will be part of a coached youth team that meets twice a week for practices, and attends cycling events and races on the weekends.

Each registered rider receives a team jersey, a USA Cycling racing license, and support from USA Cycling certified coaches, who are licensed via USA Cycling. They also receive CPR training, are SafeSport certified and background checked. A well-fitting helmet and a mountain bike in good working condition are required.

“While racing is not required, those who choose to compete in our local Clif Dirt Cup Series will be genuinely cheered on by their fellow teammates,” Kornbluh added. Racing is lots of fun and no one ever ‘sits on the bench.’ We invite everyone to join us for a springtime full of unforgettable adventures.”

For information on joining a team, contact Monika Stokes at monika@ctcyclingadvancement.com.