Students celebrate cycling trifecta through Schools Pilot Participation Program 

Nearly 200 secondary students in Adelaide have tested the waters of cycling in a fun and confidence-building environment, taking part in a month-long pilot cycling participation program to end the 2021 school year.

175 students from Roma Mitchell Secondary College were treated to cycling on the home of the Australian Cycling Team, the Adelaide Super Drome, in addition to the State Sports Park SA and Cross Keys BMX Club over the two-week program held in November.

Coordinated by AusCycling staff in South Australia, the students were guided by guest coaches including recently retired dual BMX Olympian Anthony Dean.

“It was great to see and teach so many kids that have never been on a BMX bike or track before,” Dean said.

“The excitement and commitment they had each day to improve was amazing. It was enjoyable to watch them progress and enjoy the sport.

“We need more programs like this to help grow the sport.”

While students were initially nervous about hitting the track and trail for the first time, the thrill of the experience quickly won the students over.

“Having an Olympian to coach us was very special and made the experience really enjoyable and comfortable,” student Diya Patel said.

“Attempting a new version of bike riding was quite scary, but once I learned the basic skills, it was a great experience,” Anjali Maurya said after taking part in the mountain biking.

“I really enjoyed facing the challenges of a very different sport with my classmates,” Alicia Buttery said, who rode on an indoor velodrome for the first time during the program.

Since the pilot program’s completion, students have been invited to continue their BMX journey through Cross Keys BMX Club and on the track through AusCycling's Friday night Come and Try Program at Adelaide Super Drome.

“This program has provided a great platform to introduce the diversity of cycling for a variety of skill levels and interests,” Che Thomas said.

“It also provides a pathway into the sport with a variety of additional opportunities presented throughout.

“It is an exciting program to be a part of and seeing participants develop skills and grow in confidence throughout is very rewarding.”

For more information on how your students can experience the fun, excitement and challenge of learning new skills through cycling in 2022, visit ridenation.com.au/promo/schools