Since launching in 2016, the Velo NB Youth Development program has seen a tremendous increase in participation and interest. The goal of the program is to develop athletes and coaches for the next stage of their cycling careers.
A highlight of this season will see the youth team travel to Charlesbourg, Quebec for the Quebec Cup XCO weekend on August 18th and 19th. The first race of the weekend will serve as the Quebec Provincial Championship for XCO. The New Brunswick athletes will not be eligible for the provincial title, but they will line up with the strongest competition from Quebec for two days of racing.
Sixteen riders will compete in categories from U17 down to U13 during the weekend as part of the program. Seven of these racers participated in last years Charlesbourg event. Lead by Team Manager Pierre McIntyre, the team will be coached by Luc Arsenault.
“It’s awesome to have Luc on-board and to continue with the development of youth cyclists in the Province.” said Team Manager Pierre McIntyre. “He was until recently been a Coach with Cycling Canada, and for many years before that, the Coach of the Atlantic Cycling Centre in Dieppe.”
Aresenault is ready for the challenge the weekend will bring. “I think this will be a great project for this young group. Heading to these races brings them a total different perspective and especially bring their level of competitiveness up. They’ll never be the same racer again. I’m glad to be part of it.”