A dedicated group of young cyclists from Eastlake High School and South Bay Composite gathers regularly at the Lower Otay Reservoir to hone their skills and foster camaraderie. This team, part of the Southern California league, brings together students from sixth through twelfth grade across South San Diego County. Many of the coaches are parents who volunteer their time to support the athletes. For instance, Kendra Gonzalez, whose daughter Delilah participates, finds immense joy in the experience. "There's not a single practice where I leave feeling anything but uplifted," she remarked.
Team director Allyn Olsen highlights the profound impact that mountain biking has on mental health and emotional well-being. She notes that engaging with nature during practices significantly benefits the riders. The team also faces challenges such as ensuring all members have appropriately sized bikes, especially as the children grow rapidly. To address this, they rely on community support and donations. An upcoming event organized by Ride 4 Autism aims to raise funds for essential equipment and team expenses. This initiative underscores the team's commitment to inclusivity, welcoming riders of all abilities, including those on the autism spectrum.
The transformative power of mountain biking is evident in stories like Andrew Schmidt’s. At just 12 years old, Andrew has discovered a passion for the sport, relishing the physical challenge it presents. His father, Jason Schmidt, who also serves as a coach, observes remarkable growth in Andrew’s confidence since joining the team. What started as an uncertain journey has blossomed into a source of pride and friendship for Andrew. As he navigates hills that once seemed insurmountable, his advice to aspiring cyclists is simple yet powerful: perseverance leads to success. With sign-ups for the next season opening in October, the team continues to inspire young athletes to embrace challenges and find joy in outdoor activities.
Mountain biking transcends mere physical activity; it nurtures resilience, fosters connections, and promotes inclusivity among participants. Through shared experiences and mutual encouragement, these young riders learn valuable life lessons that extend beyond the trails. Their dedication and enthusiasm exemplify how embracing challenges can lead to personal growth and strengthened communities.