Firebirds Mountain Biking | Adventure & Skill Development

When is the season of play?

Season starts April 2

Possible Race Locations

Smith Creek

West Kelowna

Ellison Park in Vernon

Merritt Enduro

Rubberhead Enduro (Salmon Arm)

Revy Enduro

Riders Need...

An intermediate-level riding ability
Modern, appropriate, dual suspension bike
Helmet & knee pads
Elbow pads, gloves, eye protection (glasses with clear or dark lenses), and full-face enduro-style helmet recommended.
Shorts and shoes (of course), preferably mountain bike shoes.
Repair basics like a tube, “bacon” strips, pump, and multi-tool.
Riders/students are required to perform a safety check at the beginning of each ride, and coaches will ensure that students have done so

The Details

Our school’s mountain biking program is designed to provide students with a fun and safe riding experience.

Coaches will guide students throughout the ride, with a leader at the front and a sweeper at the rear, ensuring everyone stays together and receives support. As riders progress, the difficulty of the trails will increase, offering new challenges.

Weather conditions will always be assessed before rides, with adjustments made for safety. Students are encouraged to ride within their ability and prepare adequately for the weather, bringing appropriate gear and hydration.

Riding Protocols

Students will be taken through a brief lesson during each ride
- Lessons will showcase different skills that they can work on during the ride
- Lessons will increase safety awareness, ensuring students know how to apply brakes properly, for example
During descent, one coach will lead students and another will follow at the rear sweeping for any slower riders
The leader and/or sweeper will carry a first aid kit, cell phone and/or radio for communication
In the event that there is a large group of riders, and sufficient coaching staff, we may split into groups of varying ability levels
Riders are encouraged to always ride within their ability level and are not required to ride any terrain they are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with
The trails utilized, and distance and elevation of rides, will become progressively more difficult throughout the season to continually challenge riders
Weather forecasts and conditions are always evaluated before and during rides
- In the event of inclement weather, particularly thunder and lightning, rides may be canceled, or riders will make their way off the mountain as soon as possible
  - Riders are expected to plan appropriately for the weather, bringing rain jackets if necessary, for example
- Rides may also be canceled if the temperatures are too warm to ride and the heat presents a danger of dehydration or heat exhaustion
  - Riders are expected to bring appropriate amounts of water to rides

First Aid

Lead and/or tail guide/coach will carry an appropriate first aid kit and be trained in administering first aid
In the unlikely event that an injury is too severe for coaches to manage and transport to medical aid, 911 will be called for extrication

Mountain Biking

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