High Performance
The
Alberta Bicycle Association supports riders to attend a number of
events each year as the Provincial Cycling Team. These events are
selected by the Racing Committee and BMX Committee. National
Championship events are usually given the highest priority; such events
provide an opportunity for Alberta riders to gain selection to the
Canadian National Team. In addition to National Championships the
Canada Games and Western Canada Games, each occurring on a four-year
cycle and encompassing both road and mountain bike events, form a
cornerstone of the Alberta Provincial Team program. Alberta cycling
teams will compete at the following events in 2008:
Start at the Entry LevelA
rider can become part of a Club and learn from the experience they have
to offer a new member including learn to ride and race clinics.
Taking part in these clinics will provide a clear understanding of the
sport and it will give the knowledge that is needed to grow as a rider.
The
rider can also stay as an independent rider and participate in the many
regional and weekly events that are hosted throughout the year. BMX specific riders can join a local track and participate in their weekly events.
Provincial Level CompetitionOnce
a rider has been competing in entry level events and has seen success
they should move up to the provincial series of events for Road and
Mountain Bike known as the Alberta Cup Series. In BMX riders have the option to move up in proficiency from Novice to Intermediate or Expert.
At
this level a rider should consider joining a club/team and start
looking for his or her first coach. Often, this can be done in one
step, as many clubs have certified coaches.
Team AlbertaThe
Alberta Provincial Cycling Team program helps Alberta based and
licensed espoir and junior riders develop their talents in a team
environment by enabling them to compete at higher level events than are
available in Alberta . At provincial team projects, team members will
receive coaching and logistical support. Team members will usually be
expected to pay a portion of the costs for the team project.
The
program is designed to support espoir and junior riders as the long
term goal of the program is to develop riders to participate in
National Team projects. In addition, some Alberta Bicycle Association
funding is related to the Canada Games and Western Canada Games, both
of which have age limits.
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