Whether you're into cross-country, downhill, or road riding, bikers have a lot to choose from in Squamish. Team Squamish, Mad March Racing and the Squamish Off Road Cycling Association (SORCA) are offering plenty of fun and competitive events throughout the biking season.
Thanks to coach Shaums March of Mad March Racing (MMR), Paul Kindree of Team Squamish was able to host a technical riding camp for a group of riders on Sunday, April 22. With the Sunshine Coast Cycling team taking part, 24 youth and 10 adults availed themselves of March's expertise.
With so many to take through the trails, March relied on fellow MMR coach, Wayne Goss, for quick tows to the trailhead behind his trusty dirt bike.
"It was a pretty wild day," said March. "It's hard with a big group to share all the new information you want to give them. I think everyone went away with a gain in confidence and a chance to take a different approach to the downhill sections of their races."
Young Team Squamish rider Philip Cairns said he especially appreciated the session on braking.
"The section on applying extra pressure -learning that by unloading and then doubling the pressure with my heels dropped, it would drive the tread into the ground."
Despite the large number of participants, all 24 kids showed a marked improvement in their riding skills, according to team parent and director Cam Cairns.
Team Squamish directors say they're delighted to have formed an association with Mad March Racing this season, and were particularly grateful for the camp sponsorship, which otherwise would not have been open to so many young riders.
Team Squamish is growing each year with the skills and numbers of riders on the increase. The team, which is the brainchild of cycling coach Paul Kindree, works closely with SORCA president Cliff Miller and local bike shop owners Dave Heisler and Al Ross, team sponsors. "There are around 23 young member riders of all levels, and often the older kids act as mentors... they give younger riders assistance and lend a hand," said spokeswoman Tamsin Miller.
Membership on Team Squamish's Elite or Development teams is competitive, and spots are awarded based on skill by a selection committee. However, participation as a Team Squamish club member is open to any SORCA member who purchases a Team Squamish jersey from the local bike shops.
SORCA takes a more casual approach to biking, inviting riders of all levels and ages (over 10) to join in their rides and Toonie Races.
To learn more about SORCA, go to www.sorca.ca, and to learn more about Team Squamish go to www.teamsquamish.ca.
