2026 YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
NOW ACCEPTING APPLICANTS FOR 2026
ABOUT OUR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM:
The 2026 Bateman’s Youth Development Program is a year-round youth mountain bike training program for committed riders aged 9–14, led by certified instructors.
The program is structured across two development teams: one focused on foundational skill building and progression, and a second, higher-performance team designed for more advanced riders pursuing technical and competitive growth. Kids will move between the two groups based on progression and ability.
Training follows a seasonal pathway, moving from winter strength and conditioning to spring endurance, summer trail progression, and fall Enduro-focused riding.
Athletes receive weekly coached sessions, technical skills development, race support, and integrated opportunities including Bateman’s MTB School Summer Camp and a Downhill Weekend. Admission is application-based; all submissions are reviewed and families will be contacted if a rider is selected as a good fit for the program.
FITNESS REQUIREMENTS:
Participants should arrive with above-average fitness for their age, or a demonstrated willingness to train consistently and work toward it over the course of the program.
Riders should be confident and in control on the Ridge Trail in the Don Valley and on most blue-level trails, including the ability to manage sustained climbs, descents, and variable trail features.
As the season progresses, athletes will be guided toward more technical black diamond terrain through structured skill development, progressive challenges, and focused coaching.
WHY WE'RE EXPANDING:
Over the three years, our team has seen incredible growth both on and off the bike. Riders have built strength and endurance, sharpened their technical skills, and gained confidence as they progressed onto more challenging terrain. Along the way, they’ve also formed lasting friendships and learned how to train and ride as part of a team.
The energy, focus, and passion our athletes bring to every session has been genuinely inspiring. That commitment has created a strong, supportive environment where riders are encouraged to push themselves, learn from one another, and enjoy the process of long-term development.
As our programming continues to grow, we’re excited to carry that momentum into 2026 and invite motivated youth riders to apply for our next season of development teams.
RACING FOCUS
Racing is not mandatory, but it is strongly encouraged as part of the development process. We’ll target a select number of fun, age-appropriate events, primarily taking place in Spring and Summer 2026.
Training is designed to prepare riders for a range of race disciplines, including cross-country and enduro-style formats, with an emphasis on skill, fitness, and confidence.
Even for athletes who choose not to compete, the program ensures every rider develops the fitness, technical ability, and mindset to be fully race-ready.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
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