Frequently Asks Questions
1. Where & how often do you practice during season?
Home to some of the best MTB trails in the world, we practice on various great regional trails in the Bay Area.
Practices are about 2 hours in duration on weekdays - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday (Cross Training/ Fitness Training/Skills Training), and Saturday’s (Longer Riding, 3 to 4 hours)
2. How long is the season?
The season starts on December 1 (Training), races begin in February and end at State Championships in mid- May.
3. Do kids use their own bikes? Other equipment?
Boys/Girls use their own bikes (the NICA league has a bike loan program for those that have financial issues), They provide their own helmets, and shoes. CV Team issues racing kits (jersey, shorts, wind vest, cold weather tops)
Please refer to our Bike Purchase Guide to help you & your athlete determine bike equipment needs.
CVCHS MTB just completed their 2nd year competing. We had 5 racers in 2016-2017, and 12 racers in 2017-2018.
4. Who specifically started the program at CVCHS?
Athletic Director Eric Bamberger helped to get the team approved through the school administration and added as part of the CVCHS athletic program (it is a club sport). Eric Skow started the team got us into the NICA league and planned the program is head coach and recruited athletes. Casey Cline has been very active as well, as a coach and helping with team administration and fundraising. Jack and Kathy Verderme have been very involved as coaches both seasons. Lots of time and commitment by coaches.
5. Does the school (or CVCHS Boosters) provide uniforms, equipment, travel funding?
During the in 2017-18 season, The CVCHS Boosters graciously provided CVCHS MTB $750. The funds were directed towards some of the capital expenses like team trailer, etc.). CVCHS MTB has also fund-raised, and self funded portions. We are sponsored by Clayton Bikes and Diablo Landscaping. Also, In 2017-18 athletes were asked for a $125 contribution towards expenses.
6. Is the mountain bike race format you compete in similar to that in the Olympics?
Racing format is exactly like Olympic Cross Country Mountain Bike racing...races are multiple laps on track/courses where each lap is approximately 5 miles (start and finish are at the same location - courses are uphill and downhill) some are more technically challenging and other are more fitness demanding. There are 8 categories (Girls - Frosh, Soph, JV, and Varsity) and (Boys - Frosh, Soph, JV, and Varsity). Typically Frosh Race 2 laps, Soph 2 or 3, JV 3 or 4, and Varsity 4 or 5 laps.
7. Can Middle Schoolers participate?
While we are a Clayton Valley Charter High School dedicated team, we may be offering some clinics for Middle School students as needs arise. If you daughter or son is planning on attending CVCHS, we do provide periodic clinics and fun rides in the Spring for 6-8th graders. Please watch the website for upcoming recruiting events & fun rides.