Mother nature has been super-kind to the team this season on practice days. While there is still cold weather to navigate, the practice days have fallen on dates where the terrain has been clear, and the wind has died down during the practice. End result?.. Enhanced skills and big smiles.
Practice 1
The first practice was held at Carey Park, and the relief of getting the team back together seemed to be a sensation that was felt by many. Familiar faces and warm welcomes doing something you love is such a reward. The better news is that we have expanded into the ’26 season with new riders as well. Parker, Riley, and Ryker fit right in and were able to acclimate to the practice process right away.
Basic Mountain Bike Skills need to be taught and confirmed prior to taking the team to the trail. Carey Park works great in Hutchinson for being local, and giving us the space to work on riding, braking, turning, and art of body – bike separation.
Practice 2
Orchard Park is a perfect location in the progression of our Mountain Bike Basics process. Parents can rest assured that safety is the top priority, while the location and exercises are designed to keep the kids engaged and interested.
The progression we tackle at Orchard is based on the terrain. The subtle ups and downs on the trail that circumnavigates the park are the perfect warmup. The open space is prime for games like Bike-soccer, or Sharks and Minnows on bike. For training, we utilize the sharper inclines off-trail to work on climbs and descents with the proper body position.
Next Location?
If the weather holds positive for the team, the next location will be up the road a piece. We will take the kids to McPherson and put the team on trail for some fun riding, and integration of skills while on trail.
We all love riding, and getting some of the kids on the trail is the culmination of the training that builds confidence and character. For some kids, this can be a big deal. By breaking the kids into groups, the coaches are able to serve up activities that speak to each rider’s abilities.
Witnessing the leaps and bounds of confidence and skill is part of the reward. Follow us this season as we develop the team and travel the state to compete.
