Racing is NOT required to be a part of the team, but the majority of our student-athletes every year choose to do so. They want to challenge themselves and put their skills to the test by lining up in the starting grid with their peers, absorbing the excitement from the crowds, hearing the cheers and bells as they hit the trails, gaining the confidence from conquering the challenging courses, and feeling the incredible satisfaction of crossing the finish line. The goals for racing may be different for each of our student-athletes, and can include:

• Just finish the race SAFELY.

• Improve their position and performance each race.

• Stand on the podium at the end of the day.

Our coaches will help the student-athletes attain their goals. But, regardless of what those goals may be, our focus for the racers is to BE SAFE, HAVE FUN, and ENJOY THE RIDE, no matter what position they finish a race in.

At the beginning of the season, the practice sessions will be similar to those outlined in the Trail Experience. As the season gets closer to the GCA Race Series starting, the focus will start to turn towards developing skills the student-athletes will need to successfully reach their race goals. These include:

• Advanced Braking

• Advanced Cornering

• Technical Climbing/Descending

• Passing other riders SAFELY

• Speed and Endurance

• Start-line sprints