Over the past several years the Grand County Cycling Club has had a small development team for middle school mountain bikers. This year the team has expanded significantly and progressed markedly under the direction of coaches Daren Jacobson and Steve and Niki Pardoe. Participation went from a handful of students to more than 18 this year. 

According to Steve Myers, head coach of the Middle Park High School Mountain Bike Team, he believes that the development team creates a fun environment for middle school riders where they can improve their skills.

“The end goals of the team are to foster a love of this lifetime sport, instill confidence, and encourage these young athletes to graduate to the Middle Park High School Mountain bike team and compete in the Colorado Cycling League’s racing program,” Myers said.

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This summer and fall the development team coaches provided a structured, organized program that benefited riders of all levels.  Their practices involved skills training and a lot of miles on bikes all over the county. The riders loved being part of the team. 

Saylor Archie, a development team participant says her experience was challenging and fun.

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“I liked riding Fraser Canyon the best, and I loved riding trails with steep technical aspects,” Archie said. 

Parvis Farzin said that her favorite part of riding with the team was having a friendly and supportive group of riders. She also gained a lot of knowledge about local bike trails.   

“All the trails are fun. I like the berms on Broken Spade and Phased and Confused – I like going up it,” Farzin said. 

Max Pardoe noted, “My favorite part of riding with the team this year was the experience of riding with many new people, as well as some old friends.  My biggest improvement was getting more confident riding in a large group.  My favorite trails to ride are the technical up-hills at Granby Ranch.” 

Avery Jacobson added that she enjoyed riding with the middle school mountain bike team and biking with kids her age. She also liked that they rode a ton of different trails. 

“I think I got in better shape riding with the team consistently. I also think my downhill skills improved because of the variety of trails we rode,” Jacobson said.

Several team athletes also participated in the Winter Park Resort Mountain Bike series races this summer, including Avery and Wyatt Jacobson and Max Pardoe.

The development team is open to all levels of middle school riders. If you are interested, please join us next summer and give it a try. For more information contact coach Jacobson at 303-885-3228 or coach Pardoe at sppardoe@gmail.com.