What started with just a handful of kids lining up in 2011 has grown into a vibrant junior program at Geelong Mountain Bike Club.
The Dirt Squirts Series now regularly attracts more than 100 young riders, turning local trails at the You Yangs and Geelong’s Hill Mountain Bike Park into a hive of energy and excitement.
Designed to give kids of all ages a chance to test their skills in a fun and supportive race environment, the program has evolved well beyond its early days.
What began as an introduction to mountain biking is now a pathway, helping young riders build confidence and progress toward competitive racing.
Dirt Squirts caters for young riders of all abilities.
On race day there are four tracks and multiple age groups racing at once, from under-6 through to under-15, and the trails are alive with action.
Each rider tackles as many laps as they can within their time limit: 15 minutes for the youngest riders through to 40 minutes for the older groups.
Despite the challenge, the atmosphere stays firmly focused on participation and fun.
The club also holds regular coaching sessions for young riders.
“Dirt Squirts is a very inclusive environment and is open to all abilities from beginners to advanced riders,” said Geelong Mountain Bike Club president Ashley Goldstraw.
“Some of the kids race flat out, while others stop for a chat with mum and dad along the way. One thing that all the kids have in common, is that no matter how tired and red in the face they are, they are all still smiling.”
Off the track, the club’s regular coaching sessions help young riders develop their skills and confidence, ensuring everyone from first-timers to keen competitors feel part of the program.
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