A day for the youth!

The ShenRock Group!

Sunday was the 2nd event of the Fall Virginia NICA Series. NICA is short for National Interscholastic Cycling Association. NICA is a fast growing National organization that is starting to bring more and more opportunities for middle and high school students to ride and race their mountain bikes.  Sunday's race was held at the Stokesville Campground, a perfect venue that provided a fantastic 3.5 mile course, camping and views that would please any outdoor lover.

A fun atmosphere that made the kids feel special.

Our family spent the night at the Stokesville Lodge which  made it easy for Ethan and I to wake up and stroll around the campground and  watch the sun rise. It was evident by all the full campsites that many families came in early to make a fun weekend out of this one day event. The best things about mountain bike racing is not always the race but everything that comes with the adventure. The camping, the sunrise, the sunset, the hanging out with new and old friends at a campfire, these are often what will make the memories. No better place to experience all these great things then the Stokesville Campground.

Nathaniel Layman rolling the last turn to the finish..

One of the most exciting parts of the weekend was seeing how many girls were at Stokesville to ride their bikes, challenge themselves and compete against other Virginia NICA teams. In what has been a typically male driven sport it was refreshing and promising to see the girls represent.  There is nothing better to encourage others to get involved then encouragement from your peers. I expect more and more young ladies to be showing up for these events in the future.

The Varsity Lead group with Massanutten Peak behind.

Our local ShenRock Team was there in full force and long with many supportive friends and family members. I had a blast hanging out with the crew at the ShenRock turn and cheering for the team (and all other riders too). I think all the kids loved having a race close to town along with  a venue that really showcased the mountain bike opportunities that exist in the area.

We wish the ShenRock Team the best of luck with their upcoming events.

Thanks for letting us tag along!

-Thomas