25 Future Champions aged 13-19 joined us at the Whistler Athletes Village for a 3-day MTB Camp. Day one we got on the bikes and worked on our skills, cornering, wheelies, and bunny hops with Lauren Rosser showing us the ropes. We wrapped up the day with a quick ride to stretch out the legs and and assess the groups riding levels.
Day two we warmed up our legs with a quick 1.5hr ride, followed by some Eliminator skills and drills. Jean Ann Berkenpas, National Eliminator Champion, designed a a fun fast circuit with some uphill, tons of corners, log jumps and bumps and some techy descents. We spent the afternoon listening and Q&Aing with Jean Ann Berkenpas. She showed us a great slideshow of her journey through cycling (toe cages and straps!) and even let us see some of the jerseys she’s collected along the way! We also got to do a workshop with Sylvia, a Hypnotist (no she didn’t hypnotize us!) who went through visualizations and imagery we could use to push our fears aside and imagine success! We then wrapped up with the day with a nice ride down to the far end of town, a session on the pumptrack and a terrific dinner by the athletes!
“The camp so far has been really fun. We’ve been working on mental training skills and biking skills on and off the trails – it’s all been great. Today my favourite activity was the eliminator races – it was great for practicing race skills. Thats what this camps about – learning and having fun!” – Nick Kleban
“This camp has been so much fun! I’ve learnt so many new skills and have gained a lot of confidence – it’s been an amazing exerpeince and so helpful to my riding. Everyone here is so supportive and fun to be around. Thank you to Cycling BC, their supporters and sponsors for making thsi camp possible!” – Maggie Coles-Lyster
“I’m super stoked to be at this camp. The past day and a half have been really fun and educational. I like being able to show people from Whistler my home trails. The coaches are really great, we’ve done some great rides, and even got to practice our eliminator skills – this made me realize I need to work on jumping logs! The talk with Richard yesterday really made me think about what I want from this. I’m pumped for another day of riding and awesome people!” – Jenn McTavish
