Followers of the Team 麻豆社国产mountain bike racing club are likely familiar by now with the likes of Quinn Moberg, Miranda Miller and Lauren Rosser.
The trio of talented cyclists has made an impact on the provincial racing scene and Rosser was recently recognized with yet another award - the Russ Copeland Award for best junior rider as recognized by the Canadian Cycling Association.
However, a fresh new crop of riders will make up Team Squamish's development team and head coach Mike Charuk is excited to help develop their skills.
"For the new riders our goals are process goals," he said. "That process is growing and honing their skills and if we do that, we know the outcomes will come later on as they develop. We're more concerned with helping them grow and become better riders as opposed to top results right off the bat."
Charuk admitted that he leans on his elite riders to help pass on knowledge and that is part of what makes being a part of Team 麻豆社国产so valuable for the new team members.
"A coach's job is never easy," he said. "But I look at myself as more of a facilitator."
Charuk said he also plans to bring well-known guest coaches such as cyclist Mike Jones to help motivate the team and share his strategies for success.
One of the new team members that Rosser pointed out in an interview with The Chief as one to watch for in 2011 was Rhys Verner. Charuk agreed that he has potential.
"He's definitely got a lot of athleticism," he said of the rookie. "He plays a lot of soccer and the cardio he's built up from that sport will benefit his cycling."
For the boys, Charuk also pointed to Michael Kilby, Ethan Toom and Luke DiMarzo as riders who have impressed him early on during the team's training sessions.
For the girls, Mikayla Martin, who is ripping up the junior ski circuit, is also expected to have a strong year. Her skiing skills will likely transfer over to cycling and her conditioning is top notch, Charuk said.
Training sessions are ongoing, taking place indoors on Thursday evenings at Republic Bikes. The team has also ventured out on the trails, hitting the ground for the first time as a team in 2011 on Jan. 22. Charuk said attendance at the indoor sessions has been good, with as many as 17 riders taking part.
"With our new riders we want them to bring commitment and enthusiasm to the sport," he said. "And so far that's what we've gotten from these kids."
The first major event for members of the team will be the Sea Otter Classic, which takes place in Monterey, Calif., from April 14 to 17. Afterward many riders will return to high school competitions.
But, first up will be the first-ever "Food Ride," which will see members of the team go door to door on their bikes to collect non-perishable food items for the 麻豆社国产Food Bank. The "Food Ride" is scheduled to take place on Feb. 14.
For more information on the team, visit www.teamsquamish.ca.
