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Clubs


Clubs are great partners of the Alberta Bicycle Association. Without our clubs, we could not help promote cycling education, have races, provide learn to ride clinics, nor have coaches. To be a member of an ABA affiliated club you must have or hold a valid ABA license for the current year. 

Our affiliated clubs host activities such as BMX try-outs, road races, Cyclo-cross rides, and bike swaps to attract new members to both its organization and the Alberta Bicycle Association.

The Alberta Bicycle Association works diligently to bring a National Coaching Certification Program courses to those club members  who would like to become a coach or offer a commissaire course. These programs are available to all Alberta Bicycle Association members.

How do you start a club? It’s really easy once you get started.

ABA Affiliation Options

All Alberta Bicycle Association (ABA) Clubs, Business Affiliates, and Provincial Trade Teams are required to affiliate annually. Below is a comparison of the three affiliation types.

1. Provincial Clubs (Non-Profit)

Definition
Provincial Clubs are typically non-profit organizations with open membership, run by a member-elected board of directors, and governed by bylaws. Clubs provide organized cycling activities, events, and social opportunities.

Key Requirements

  • Must be incorporated as a Non-Profit Society with bylaws and a constitution.

  • Membership is open to all individuals with a valid ABA membership.

  • Must hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM) and maintain a board of directors.

  • Must report membership details to the ABA as requested.

  • Must ensure all members hold valid ABA Memberships (Affiliate Club Membership, Citizen Permit, or UCI License).

  • Must establish and maintain bylaws, policies, and guidelines transferable between executives.

  • Must have a risk management plan and provide member waivers to the ABA.

  • All coaches, personnel, and volunteers must adhere to the Responsible Coaching Movement.

Activities

  • Organize and host weekly rides, training sessions, and/or events.

  • Provide a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable atmosphere for members.

  • Support both recreational and competitive cycling.

2. Business Affiliates (For-Profit or Non-Profit)

Definition
Business Affiliates may be incorporated as For-Profit Corporations or as Non-Profits. They may be owned by a single individual, a group, or their members. Affiliates often include bike shops, for-profit or non-profit race organizers, and commercial ride clubs.

Key Notes

  • May or may not have bylaws, depending on incorporation type.

  • Examples:

    • Bike Shop Ride Clubs

    • For-Profit or Non-Profit Race Organizers

Insurance Clarification

  • Race organizer activities such as Gran Fondos are not covered under ABA’s insurance program unless:

    • The event has been sanctioned by the ABA, and

    • An Event Certificate of Insurance has been issued.

3. Provincial Trade Teams (Closed Membership)

Definition
Trade Teams are privately owned entities with a select membership, focused on competitive cycling. They often provide structured coaching, equipment, and team management support.

Key Requirements

  • Privately owned and operated.

  • Membership is by invitation/selection only (not open to the public).

  • Primary focus is on racing and competition.

  • Athletes must hold a UCI Race License.

  • May organize team training activities, races, or participate in events for licensed athletes.

Activities

  • Provide athletes with:

    • Coaching

    • Equipment support

    • Team management

  • Compete in sanctioned races domestically and internationally.