April 24/08 10:10 am - Hamilton Cycling Club and Sprockids at Paris To Ancaster

Posted by Editoress on 04/24/08
 

Hamilton Cycling Club and Sprockids at Paris To Ancaster
Courtesy HCC

Thanks to the generous support of the Paris to Ancaster Organization Hamilton CC youth leaders had the privilege of working with a group of 21 young mountain bikers between the ages of 8-12 yrs. Chris Kiriakopoulos was at the helm, supported by Julie Bieri, Leo Rock and five teenage members of HCC's Youth group . One pre teen graduate of our 1st and 2nd Gear Sprockids programs was also invited to assist.

This years P2A Intro to Sprockids group was particularly challenging to plan for given the range in ability. From total beginner, and 8yrs old...to an experienced O-Cup racer (12 yrs old). The HCC Leader team was on the job providing plenty of individual attention to all riders. Highlights of the day? The usual sights and sounds of kids on bikes. The few requisite misjudged tree roots, mud bogs and bends in the trail are always memorable. And the flat tire could not have happened at a better time. All teachable moments.

Best of all, for me, was twenty minutes before the end of our session. We had made our way to the trail head off Martins Road, at the base of the climb to the finish of Paris to Ancaster. After a few minutes of cheering the P2A riders on our Sprockids were given their final "riding" instructions of the day before they were led up the climb with the big boys and girls. On the wheel of one particular 11yr old, I was thinking about how well she was managing on the climb when she calls out..."Go Daddy!". She actually kept up for 20-30 metres before dad dug down deep and pulled away. For sure...highlight of the day.

The Hamilton Cycling Club is looking forward to a full season of leading young cyclists. The City of Hamilton Sprockids session in May (5 Saturdays) is full, and our Youth Group will soon announce their regular ride and race schedule.

For more information on Hamilton Cycling Club Youth initiatives contact,
Chris Kiriakopoulos
Sprockids Leader
NCCP L1 Road
clkiriakopoulos@cogeco.ca