The Cycling BC Targeted Athlete Mentorship Bursary Program was launched by Cycling BC in 2023 and was designed to support targeted athletes in Cycling BC’s High Performance pathway in pursuing training opportunities, fostering mentorship and community programs, and encouraging coaching development within cycling.
Athletes are required to take on mentorship or leadership roles within their cycling community as a means to enhance their skills, on and off the bike, and contribute to their local community. Furthermore, to support the growth of the sport, the program provides a structured model to foster the ongoing development of aspiring athletes and coaches in BC.
From Riders to Mentors: The Story of MINI GRITT
In 2023, two of Cycling BC’s targeted athletes from the BMX High Performance program, Dane Kerluck and Austin Corbill, embarked on a mission to share their love of BMX riding with young riders in their community of Campbell River.
With the support of Cycling BC’s Targeted Athlete Mentorship Bursary, they initiated a program called MINI GRITT where budding BMXers could practice and refine their skills on the BMX track.
Each practice session at MINI GRITT was filled with fun and laughs but when it came time to hit the track, the riders came ready to put in the work. “Our riders are determined and driven on the BMX track,” said Dane and Austin. “We always make sure to keep them learning new skills while also having fun.”
Throughout the season, Dane and Austin enjoyed watching their young riders evolve and progress their skills as the once newbie riders transformed into skilled BMX enthusiasts—a testament to the dedication they put into mentoring their young athletes.
Congratulations and thank you to Dane and Austin for initiating this program in Campbell River, we hope to see the legacy of MINI GRITT continue to flourish along with your mentorship and passion for riding BMX.
Learn more about Cycling BC’s targeted athlete Mentorship Bursary Program.