Since his retirement from professional cycling in 2007, Axel Merckx has been eager to share his 14+ years of pro tour experience and knowledge with young cyclists. Now, the former Belgian national champion and Olympic medalist sets his sights on his adopted country of Canada.
The Axel Merckx Youth Development Foundation (AMYDF) aims to play an integral role in developing the next generation of cycling to Canada’s youth.
What is the Axel Merckx Youth Development Foundation (AMYDF)?
The AMYDF is a not-for-profit initiative established in 2011 to help develop and steward the future of Canada’s young cyclists. The Foundation works with national and provincial organizations, such as the Canadian Cycling Association and Cycling BC, to enhance cycling skills through a variety of competitive events, development camps and coaching clinics.
Through the Foundation’s efforts, Canada’s young cyclists receive unique access to some of North America’s top professional and amateur athletes, such as Clara Hughes and Axel Merckx, plus elite-level coaching, training events, and competitive races. The Foundation ultimately promotes the health and well-being benefits of cycling, and endeavors to create a new level of excitement for cycling among Canada’s youth.
Highlighting the Foundation’s inaugural activities is the Axel Merckx Youth Cycling Series. This collection of cycling events will allow the region’s promising 12 to 17 year old cyclists to race under a structured learning environment, while competing directly with their peers. The Series debuts in 2012 with events in the following B.C. cities:
• Vancouver, B.C. [June 9-10]
• Victoria, B.C. [July 21-22]
• Penticton, B.C. [August 31st – September 2nd]
Each event will include coaching seminars, athlete development lectures and, of course, age-group category races.
How is the AMYDF funded?
Supporting the development of cycling regionally and nationally requires an investment of time and funds. Fortunately, the AMYDF is proud to receive funding through the following sources:
• Key partnerships with individuals and businesses (including sponsorship of youth training camps, equipment sponsors, etc.);
• A percentage of each registration from the annual Valley First Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan event; and,
• A percentage from the sale of each Axel Merckx or Valley First Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan garment.
Visit www.amydf.org for more information.
Visit http://reg.ccnbikes.com/index.php/event/axel-merckx-youth-cycling-series to register.