This “Neo Newts” session was intended for beginners, ages 8-12, and a few actually started out as such! A couple of the kids had been in previous camps, so they had more skills. By the end, with eight signed up, all had fun and made great progress from standing confidently on their pedals, trail riding, slow races, enjoying the pump track (instead of being scared), to even improving their jumping.
All had a blast, including us coaches! Thanks to a returning crew of Head Coach Elaine, Coaches Myles and Foster, along with two trainee Coaches Eli and Hazel, we were able to give lots of attention to all the kids at their level.
Day 1, Monday, we saw perfect Portland summer weather – not too hot and not too cold. As usual for Day 1, we checked bikes and helmets as the kids arrived. We did some drills including braking, shifting, standing on pedals and riding as a group. Once at Gateway Green, some cautiously studied the big pump track by walking it, then watched as others rode. Everyone eventually had a go! The Toeline Trail was popular as well as the Skills Area.
Tuesday and Wednesday were much warmer, so for safety we ended early. Fortunately, there are plenty of shady places to ride in Gateway Green, and we took lots of water breaks. Some of the kids wanted to explore the Fenceline Trail and all the kids enjoyed the pump track. At the end of the session, we had a spray bottle fight to help stay cool!
Thursday was back to perfect, normal temperatures, so we got to ride more in the park. The kids were all sad that it was the last day. And we coaches were sad to see them go! It’s amazing how much each kid improved over the course of the four days—half days—we meet in the mornings because the afternoons get too warm.
Next up is the next camp in mid-August! We already know the kids will be awesome and we will have a perfectly great time. Fingers crossed for more perfect weather!