Wednesday, March 26, 2025

2025 Try It Ride Schedule

Get Rolling This Spring with the SoMont, Philly Wiss and Philly Pennypack Youth Mountain Bike Teams!

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to get kids outside, moving, and connecting with their local parks and trails. Whether your child is already zipping around the neighborhood on two wheels or just curious about mountain biking, our Try It Rides are the perfect way to check out what youth mountain biking is all about—no pressure, just fun on bikes with a welcoming crew.

🚵‍♀️ What Are Try It Rides?

Hosted by the SoMont, Philly Wiss and our newest team Philly Pennypack, Try It Rides are FREE, low-key events where middle and high schoolers (grades 6–12) can hop on a bike, meet coaches and current riders, and get a taste of what it’s like to be part of our team.

Whether you're from southern Montgomery County, NW or NE Philly, we’ve got a team near you. 

📅 2025 Try It Ride Schedule

  • May 3 | 10 AM–12 PM | Blue Bell Park

  • May 13 | 5:30 PM–7:30 PM | Twining Park

  • May 20 | 5:30-7pm | Pennypack on the Delaware



Just come as you are—bring a bike and helmet if you have them, and we’ll help with the rest. Need a bike? No worries - we can provide you with one for the event.

👉 RSVP Here or scan the QR code in the flyer to let us know you’re coming!


Why Join a Youth MTB Team?

We’re not just about racing (though we do that too!). Youth mountain biking offers a unique blend of adventure, community, and personal growth. When kids join our team, they’ll gain:

🌟 Confidence and resilience from trying new things
💪 Fitness and strength through fun outdoor activity
🤝 Friendships that span schools and neighborhoods
🌲 Respect for nature and trail stewardship values
🧰 Bike maintenance skills to keep their ride rolling

All Riders Welcome

  • 🚻 All genders

  • 📚 Grades 6–12

  • 🚴 No experience needed—just a willingness to learn and have fun

  • 🗓️ Our season runs from July through October, with practices and weekend adventure rides


Ready to Ride?

The Try It Rides are a great chance to meet our dedicated coaches, see how our practices work, and find out what makes the teams a one-of-a-kind experience for youth in our region.

📞 Call or text us at (215) 690-1298
📧 Email us at info@somontcycling.org

Let’s ride into a new season of adventure, excitement, friendship, and fitness. See you on the trail! 🌄




Monday, February 10, 2025

Visit the Independence Youth Cycling site.

 For the most up-to-date information about youth mountain biking in Montgomery County, NW Philadelphia and NE Philadelphia, please visit the Independence Youth Cycling website, our parent 501c3 non-profit.




Monday, August 12, 2024

🚴‍♂️ Get Ready for an Epic Day of Racing at Twining Valley Park! 🚴‍♀️

This Saturday, August 17th, we’re excited to bring you the SoMont/Philly Wiss-produced Local Dirt race at our very own Twining Valley Park (TVP)! It’s going to be a thrilling day filled with speed, excitement, and some seriously fun mountain biking action! 🎉

Race Day Details:

  • Date: Saturday, August 17th
  • Location: Twining Valley Park
  • Student Athlete Registration Deadline: 🗓️ Thursday, August 15th at NOON

Event Schedule:

  • 8:00 AM: Pre-ride opens 🚴‍♂️
  • 8:45 AM: Pre-ride closes - All team HC/TD meeting 📣
  • 9:00 AM: Races begin! 🏁

Race Categories:

  • High School Girls:
    • 9:00 AM – 3 laps (2.2 miles each)
  • Middle School Girls:
    • 9:45 AM – 2 laps (2 miles) including a 1 Lap Fun Lap 🏆
  • Middle School Boys:
    • 10:30 AM – 2 laps (2 miles) including a 1 Lap Fun Lap 🏆
  • High School Boys:
    • 11:30 AM – 3 laps (2.2 miles each)

Competing Teams:

Invited teams include SoMont, Philly Wiss, Phoenixville, Lower Bucks, Bucks Composite, Lower Merion, TE, and possibly BCYC. Get ready for some friendly competition! 🥇

Course Info:

We Need Volunteers!

Help us make this event a success by signing up to volunteer! 🙌

Safety First:

  • Emergency Action Plan (EAP): TVP EAP

Join us for a day of community, competition, and pure MTB fun at TVP! Whether you’re racing or cheering, this event is sure to be a highlight of the summer. 🌟 Let’s ride!

See you at the starting line! 🚵‍♂️🚵‍♀️

Saturday, March 2, 2024

Get Ready to Ride: Join Us for April Try It Rides!

Excitement is in the air as the SoMont Youth Mountain Biking Team gears up for the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League (PICL) and National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) season with two pre-season TryIt Rides. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the thrill of mountain biking, these events are your gateway to adventure, community, and the great outdoors. Here’s everything you need to know to join in the fun!

Tell us you are interested by filling out the 2024 Season Interest Form. No commitment necessary, we just need some information from you!

Unlock Your Adventure: The SoMont/PICL TryIt Rides

Dates & Locations:

Saturday, April 20th at Lorimer Park, 10 am. 183 Moredon Rd, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Tuesday, April 23rd at Twining Valley Park, 5 pm. 1400 Twining Rd, Dresher, PA 19025

TryIt Rides are the perfect opportunity for students in grades 6-12 to dip their toes into the exciting world of mountain biking. Hosted in two locations, Lorimer Park and Twining Valley Park, these rides promise an introduction to the team in a fun, supportive, and safe environment. Guided by our trained coaches, participants will learn the basics of mountain biking, including bike handling, trail etiquette, and safety tips, as well as have the opportunity to meet riders and coaches.

No Bike? No Problem!

We understand that not everyone has access to a mountain bike, and we believe that should never be a barrier to participation. Thanks to Independence Youth Cycling’s commitment to getting more kids on bikes, loaner bikes and helmets are available for those who need them. This initiative ensures that every child has the chance to experience the joy and freedom of biking, regardless of their current equipment.

Why Join a TryIt Ride?

Mountain biking is more than just a sport; it’s a way to build confidence, develop a sense of adventure, and make lasting friendships. The SoMont Youth MTB Team and IYC are dedicated to creating inclusive, supportive communities through cycling, offering an alternative to traditional team sports where no one sits on the bench. By participating in a TryIt Ride, you’re taking the first step toward an active lifestyle, environmental stewardship, and becoming part of a vibrant community of young cyclists.

Ready to Ride with Us?

If you're intrigued by the thrill of mountain biking and ready to join a community of young enthusiasts, sign up for one of our TryIt Rides. Don’t miss out on this chance to kickstart your cycling journey with the SoMont Youth MTB Team and IYC.

As a next step, express your interest in the 2024 Season by filling out our 2024 Season Interest Form. This form is your ticket to becoming a part of our cycling family, where adventure, fitness, and friendship await.

Let's make these TryIt Rides a stepping stone to a season filled with adventure, learning, and unforgettable memories. See you on the trail!

Have questions? Email is at info@independenceyouthcycling.org

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

What Parents Need to Know for the 2024 Mountain Bike Season

A post from Independence Youth Cycling's blog...

As the 2024 mountain biking season approaches, Independence Youth Cycling (IYC) and its PICL/NICA mountain bike teams are gearing up for another exciting year. Here's what parents should know to ensure their young riders are ready for the trails.

Eligibility and Registration

Our teams welcome all youth in grades 6-12 residing in specified townships and neighborhoods in and around Philadelphia. The 2024 Season Interest Form is now available, allowing parents to sign up for notifications about registration​​​​. Visit the Independence Youth Cycling website and look for the the 2024 Season Interest Form.

Program Goals and Philosophy

IYC teams aim to instill a love for cycling and the outdoors in their participants. They focus on building character, confidence, and a sense of adventure through cycling. This approach not only encourages physical fitness but also teaches valuable life skills​​​​.

No Experience Necessary

Don't worry if your child is new to mountain biking. IYC teams welcome beginners and provide training on biking basics, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels​​.

Practice and Event Schedule

The practice season starts in July, with the event season kicking off at the end of August. Practices are typically held two to three times a week, with races and adventure weekends scheduled through early November​​​​.

Practice Locations and Attendance

IYC teams practice mainly at Lorimer Park, Pennypack Park, Wissahickon Park, Twining Valley Park and Cresheim Trail, with other locations used occasionally. While regular attendance is encouraged for skill development, the team is flexible, understanding the busy schedules of young athletes​​.

Parental Involvement

Parents should expect to commit time for travel to practices and events. Participation in races, although optional, is highly encouraged as they offer a unique and energizing experience​​.

Costs and Equipment

Joining an IYC PICL/NICA team involves a fee, in addition to the national/state league registration fee. Students need a good-quality bike, helmet, cycling gloves, eye protection, and other essential gear for a safe and comfortable riding experience​​​​. IYC can provide financial aid.

Looking Ahead

With cyclocross coming to IYC in 2024, there will be even more opportunities for young cyclists to explore and enjoy different forms of biking​​.

As we approach the 2024 season, Independence Youth Cycling, SoMont Cycling and Philly Wiss continue their mission to enrich lives through cycling. Whether your child is a seasoned rider or just starting, this season promises adventure, growth, and lots of fun on two wheels!

If you want to explore riding on our non-scholastic based teams like Circle Cycle Racing or via our new cyclocross team, please contact us directly.

 

Sunday, July 16, 2023

SoMont MTB Newsletter for Sunday July 16, 2023

SoMont Newsletter for Sunday July 16

Breaking news! Official team jersey and SoMont Fan Gear online stores are going live this week. Be on the lookout for an email within the next few days.

We had a GREAT first week of practices.  We loved seeing our returning riders and coaches, meeting the new student-athletes and families and seeing lots of smiling faces!  

Our goal is to make sure all families know what is going on within SoMont so you will be getting weekly updates and reminders via email.  They will typically come out on Sundays. Please reach out with any questions. 

A few things we noticed:

  • Many student-athletes did not bring enough water.  It’s HOT!  Hydration is super important.  Please make sure to have plenty of water.  One water bottle often isn’t enough during these hot summer practices.
  • We need parents/guardians to meet their student athletes in the parking lot at the end of practice.  Student athletes should not be leaving the parking lot on their own to ride home.  
  • Check your bike before coming to practice (air in tires, brakes working, chain lubed and not stretched out).  At a minimum, every rider should carry a tube that fits their tire in case of a flat.
  • Thank you for responding for events in Team Snap.  It makes things run smoothly when we know who to expect.  PLEASE KEEP THIS UP!  This week’s schedule includes THREE practices - Tuesday from 6-8, Thursday from 6-8 and Saturday from 9-11.  All practices this week (7/18 - 7/22)  will be at Lorimer Park.  Next week we will be practicing at Twining Valley Park to prepare for our first Local Dirt that we are hosting. Always check Team Snap for locations as we will make sure the events are updated there. 

The MTB Rider Cup at Twining Valley Park is scheduled for Sunday, August 13th.  Mark your calendars now and update your availability in Team Snap.  We would LOVE to see every SoMont rider attend this event if possible.  Specific information regarding times, etc will come later. 

On Thursday, 7/20 we will also be hosting a New Family Meeting and Gear Swap during practice time.  We will be discussing the events for the season, what to expect and volunteer opportunities.  Please plan to attend.  Returning families are welcome to attend as well.  Many of us have extra gear around that we don’t use.  Let’s give that gear a good home.  

Appropriate items to bring:

  • lightly used cycling jerseys
  • used equipment like saddle bags
  • cycling shoes
  • extra water bottles
  • Camelbaks/hydration packs
  • SoMont supporter gears (t-shirts, hoodies, hats) that you have outgrown

Inappropriate items to bring

  • Used chamois
  • Broken bike parts
  • Cycling shoes that are worn out and unsafe
  • Anything unsafe



 

Sunday, April 16, 2023

Upcoming events - 2023 spring

 Join us at an upcoming event to learn more about our teams!

Team Information Night for New Riders and Families
Monday April 17, 6pm at Keswick Cycle

  • Co-ed grades 6-12 fall/winter 2023/24
  • We practice 2/3 times a week starting early July
  • We ride at Lorimer Park, Pennypack, Wissahickon/Forbidden Drive and other local trail networks
  • Event season late August thru end of October
  • Team Registration opens around April 15
  • "TryIt Rides" and Get-to-know-ya events April and May
  • Financial aid, bikes and equipment available

We're always looking for adult volunteers - reach out!


April Youth MTB "Try It" Ride

SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 AT 2 PM
Lorimer Park

Join us April 29, 2pm at Lorimer Park in Abington for a Try It Ride! That's right -- a TRY IT Ride, not a Try OUT ride. Everyone makes the team in mountain biking! Boys and Girls in grades 6-12 (as of fall 2023) are welcome to attend. No mountain biking experience required, although they must be comfortable riding a bike. This will be a fun event with games, education, and a short trail ride at the end if time permits.

A mountain bike with gears, helmet, and water bottle and cage or camelback-type backpack is required. We may have a few bikes available to borrow for the event if you let us know ahead of time.

Parents are asked to stay and attend a short info meeting with coaches, but they will not be biking with us.

Please fill out this form if you plan to attend.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScf42R8qO-AngGFu_jKLctOGgCVqv3qKyitSJDQVpWj4pftvA/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0xcpkfbzWX7utd4cPwWkf5URR-VHUDWUSH1P2gN4J-oox2En_vvoccF-E


May Youth MTB "Try It" Ride
TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2023 AT 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Lorimer Park

Join us May 23 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Lorimer Park in Abington for a Try It Ride! That's right -- a TRY IT Ride, not a Try OUT ride. Everyone makes the team in mountain biking! Boys and Girls in grades 6-12 (as of fall 2023) are welcome to attend. No mountain biking experience required, although they must be comfortable riding a bike. This will be a fun event with games, education, and a short trail ride at the end if time permits.

A mountain bike with gears, helmet, and water bottle and cage or camelback-type backpack is required. We may have a few bikes available to borrow for the event if you let us know ahead of time.

Parents are asked to stay and attend a short info meeting with coaches, but they will not be biking with us.

Please fill out this form if you plan to attend.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScf42R8qO-AngGFu_jKLctOGgCVqv3qKyitSJDQVpWj4pftvA/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0xcpkfbzWX7utd4cPwWkf5URR-VHUDWUSH1P2gN4J-oox2En_vvoccF-E






Tuesday, February 21, 2023

This is how we roll!

 This is how we roll!

Panthers and Ghosts riding together -- competing with other youth mountain bike athletes from across the state. 

We also have teams across all of lower MontCo and parts of Philadelphia.

To learn more about our upcoming season, fill out the 2023 Season Interest form! More info below too...

Click here for the 2023 Season Interest form

- Practice season starts July 1, 2023

- Event season late August thru end of October

- Team Registration opens around April 15

- "TryIt Rides" and Get-to-know-ya events April and May

- Financial aid, bikes and equipment available

- We're always looks for adult volunteers - reach out!

#moregirlsonbikes #morekidsonbikes #abingtonghosts #cheltenhampanthers #pamtb #SoMontStrong

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

2022 Season Planning



Hello and thank you for visiting the SoMont MTB website.

As we are early in the year, planning activities have not yet started. We expect to start season planning in March.

In the meantime, here's what you need to know.

New/interested student athletes and families

  • We are expecting another year of growth. While registration isn't open yet (and won't until April) please use the "2022 Season Interest Form" to get your name on file. We'll use this list to communicate our initial pre-season events which start in April.
  • If you have friends who are interested in joining, please also have them sign up as soon as possible
  • Pre-season runs from April 1 through June 30. During this time we will hold a number of 1-2 hour Try It Rides as well as other promotional events.
  • Official registration will open in April and run through May. Registration will be closed on or before the first week of June. Once registration opens, we ask you sign up ASAP, including the payment of PICL/NICA and SoMont team fees.
  • Our official season runs from July through October (4 months). The core of our practice season is in July and August. New student athletes are required to attend practices these months.
  • Event season starts in mid August until the end of October. Official events are generally every other weekend from late summer to fall. Practice will continue during this time.
  • Practices are typically Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8pm and Saturdays from 9am to 11am
New/interested coaches
  • If you are interested in learning more about coaching, please contact so we can talk. We are always looking for new adults to help us with the team. Please email us at sendit@indiemtb.org
  • Coach roles vary -- Ride Support, Ride Leader and Instructor. There is no minimum commitment. All we ask is to make a comments to the head coach and do your best to stick with it. If once a week is all you can do, we can make that work.
  • Some 2021 coach fees were reimbursed. We are hoping our 2022 budget allows for that again this year.
To learn more about what it means to be a mountain bike coach, visit this blog entry.

Hope to meet you all soon!

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

Friends of Cresheim Trail Recognize SoMont/Philly Wiss Trail Work


On July 31, 2021 Independence Youth Cycling’s chapter teams, SoMont and Philly Wiss, participated in the Pennsylvania Interscholastic League’s Teen Trail Corp Day at Cresheim Trail in NW Philadelphia.

23 student athletes, 10 coaches and many parents & siblings participated in the event, which was hosted by the Friends of Cresheim Trail.

The collective group performed a total of 66 hours of volunteer time.

The teams met at the outdoor classroom area on Cresheim Road and formed groups. The groups trimmed/resurfaced the single-track loop toward Germantown Avenue, trimmed the trail out to Allens Lane and  cleared the sidewalk along Cresheim Valley Dr/Emlen Street. Previously un-walkable due to overgrowth, the entire sidewalk along Cresheim Valley Drive/Emlen St was made walkable again as a result of the workday.

Teen Trail Corp is a program from the National Interscholastic Cycling League (NICA) and its state chapter the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League (PICL). Teen Trail Corps is a program that provides NICA student-athletes the opportunity to serve and give their time towards bike related advocacy activities. The program is designed to provide exposure and be a gateway for NICA student-athletes into the world of advocacy.

On September 3rd, Friends of Cresheim Trail Executive Director Susan Dannenberg presented the team with a Certificate of Acknowledgement and letter, and thanked team for their very important work in maintaining the trail network.

-----------------------------------------------------------------


September 3, 2021

Dear SoMont Youth MTB Team:

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Cresheim Trail, I would like to personally thank you for your significant contribution to the August Workday on the Cresheim Trail. We are delighted that your group chose the Cresheim Trail as the beneficiary of your efforts. It is only through the hard work of volunteers like yourselves that we can maintain this special trail.

Please let your parents know that we appreciate their time. Guiding a group this large is not possible without adult participation.

During the workday over thirty SoMont Youth MTB Team members and their parents performed over 66 hours of clean up. Volunteers cleared vines from two segments of the Cresheim Trail and cleared the slate sidewalk on Emlen Street between Cresheim Road and Allens Lane. This was a major undertaking and will benefit all who use the Cresheim Trail or walk along Cresheim Valley Drive to say nothing of the aesthetic improvement! Cresheim Valley Drive is one of the Fairmount Park Drives and serves as a beautiful gateway. Your work on clearing and repairing the historic slate sidewalk makes this parkway truly worthy of the name.

Great work everyone. The Friends of the Cresheim Trail greatly appreciates your dedication to community service!

Sincerely,

Susan Dannenberg, Board Chair

Friends of the Cresheim Trail

-----------------------------------------------------------







Monday, August 9, 2021

Supporters Store and SoMont Gear Bag

 The SoMont Supporter Store and Gear Bag orders close soon! Get your merch and gear now while the order window is open! Order window closes August 15th.

Supporter Store - https://artisticscreendesigns.tuosystems.com/stores/somont2021

Gear Bag  - https://www.cat5gear.ca/cyclist-case/

When ordering you the gear back you will need to enter “somont” (all lower case, no spaces) in the coupon code section.  You may see a higher price at first, however once you enter your address and coupon code, the price should update to the price stated above.






Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Season 6 Episode 1 Coming Soon!

Last night we held a virtual meeting for all return riders and families. Our special guest was Derek Dureka, Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation Director. Derek gave us an update on Twining Valley Park!

The agenda included the pre-season timeline, registration deadline/cap, practice season approach - starting July 13, team composition (this year, next year), official event schedule and sponsorship/fundraising.

You can view the slides from the presentation here.

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

What it means to be a SoMont/NICA youth mountain bike coach

Interested in being a youth mountain bike coach? 

Well, that question is usually answered by asking another question! "What does it mean to BE a mountain bike coach?"

Here's the way we look at it. There are 3 basic "coaching" roles -- Ride Supporter, Ride Leader & Skills Instructor.

Participation as a coach starts at the Ride Support level. This role supports other senior coaches and consists of keeping kids in order at the beginning and end of practice, as well as managing during instruction sessions. During trail rides, Ride Supporters ride in with the pack to keep the group controlled and/or sweep the group. Ride Support requires a NICA Level 1 Certification. You do NOT need mountain biking experience to be a Level 1 coach. We’ll help you learn what you need to be successful!

Ride Leader is next. Ride Leader role is responsible for leading a successful group of athletes and coaches during a ride. There's a group ride protocol we follow, which is geared toward safety. This coach role requires a Level 2 NICA coach certification, mostly for knowledge on how to teach basic skills (NICA "OTB 101"), First Aid certification,  and NICA Risk Management.

Skills Instructor comes next. This is a senior coach who is comfortable getting up in front of the student athletes to do skills instruction. We have a really great skills development program provided to us by National Interscholastic Cycling Association and the  Pennsylvania Interscholastic Mountain Biking league. The Skills Instructor role requires a NICA Level 2 or 3 certification

Above that we have different senior level roles that make the organization run. 

The other part of leading a team is finding a spot where we can make you as a person, shine. We do our best to find roles where people can bring their individual strengths to the table. CFO types help with finances more than instruction. Comms people help with social media and email newsletters vs hammering with the fast kids. You get the idea.

Interested in learning more about coaching! Contact us today! We need YOU to make our program a success! E-mail us for more info at info@somontcycling.org




Wednesday, December 30, 2020

Gearing up for the 2021 season!

Hello and thank you for visiting the SoMont website.


Despite all the challenges we faced, we had a successful 2020 season. We were 45 student athletes and 25 coaches strong. We competed in a number of state time-trail events and even hosted our first ever SoMont produced event -- the Blue Comet Motorcycle Club Short Track race.

As we look forward into 2021, I want to share with you our general timeline.

January thru March - this is our official OFF season. The coaching staff meets monthly to reflect and plan for the season ahead.

April thru June - PRE season. We typically have a number of small off-the-bike pre-season events in April and May. Be on the lookout for promotional events at local bike shops and other locations. Every May we have our annual MTBBQ. We have a limited number of official pre-season rides (new and return athletes) in May and June.

July thru August - Practice and Training season. We start practice usually the first full week after July 4. Practice schedule is Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

September thru October - Race and event season. We typically participate in 5-6 statewide race event and any number of adventure/camping/social events.

If you are interested in learning more about joining the team, please contact us at info@somontcycling.org

Thursday, November 19, 2020

Youth Sports in 2019 vs 2020


Just about on e year ago Coach John and a few local coaches did a talk at the Philly Bike Expo. 

Since that time, a lot about youth sports has changed. Cycling in particular has seen growth. 

This presentation, with video, tells a really interesting story about the health of cycling in 2019.

 

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Practice starts tonight!

Final checklist for practice Practice day is here! 

Some really important notes as we start the season. 

Parents, you are required to read and observe the rules and guidance provided in our Return to Play/Covid Protocols document. If you have not done so, please read the document prior to tonight's practice. I have also pasted in the Self Assessment guidelines to the bottom of this email.


Regarding Covid self assessment, if your child even feels slightly sick and/or is demonstrating ANY of the Covid symptoms please keep your child home. 

Masks are required at all times. Only on a ride will we permit the student athletes to remove their masks. If a student athlete has a condition that prevents them from wearing a mask all the time, please let me know. 

A helmet and water (water bottle, camelback, etc...) are mandatory. Helmets must be worn any times an athlete is on their bicycle, even if for a short distance or standing still. 

Drop off in the main parking lot. Pick-up also in the main parking lot. DO NOT drive down to the ranger station. DO NOT let your child cross Moredon Road. Have them go UNDER Moredon road down by the creek. 

I will be with a few coaches in the parking lot to greet you. Please ask for me when arriving. 

Parents are not allowed to be in the immediate practice area other than walking down for drop-off. You are allowed to remain at/in the park to walk, hike or bike. 

Practice is from 6pm to 7:30-ish. Please arrive on time or early. I expect us to run long. Any questions call me. 

See you this evening. Please be on time. 

Coach John 
215 704-1556 

------ SELF ASSESSMENT ------ 

All athletes and coaches MUST perform the following self-assessment prior to coming to practice or any SoMont event: 

Do you feel unwell or have any of the above CDC-identified symptoms? 

Within the last 14 calendar days, have you been in close contact (within 6 feet) of someone who has an active case of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19? 

Within the last 14 calendar days, have you been in close contact (within 6 feet) of someone who is ill or demonstrates any of the above CDC-identified symptoms? 

 ithin the last 14 calendar days, have you received instructions from a public health authority to self-observe, self-isolate or self-quarantine?

Within the last 14 calendar days, have you traveled outside the United States or to a PA Dept of State identified high-risk state?  

If you answer “yes” regarding any of the symptoms, DO NOT come to practice. 

Please also consider contacting your family physician and self-observing, self-isolating, or self-quarantining as necessary.

Friday, July 10, 2020

2020 Registration is OPEN!



Hello SoMont family!

2020 Registration is open! Here's what you need to know!

2020 season will focus on Adventure (vs racing)

Local events (aka Local Dirt) and destination rides on weekends (no state-wide PICL races like in previous seasons)

Full practice program with on-the-bike skills, fitness, ride readiness, bike maintenance

Additional, new practice locations

Teen Trail Corps activities

Family camping weekends

Reduced PICL/NICA fees

Pay-what-you-can SoMont team fee

2020 team apparel for purchase

Full COVID protocols planning and compliance (see website and Zoom meetings for more information)

Registration open thru Sunday July 19 or until roster cap is reached

First practice Tuesday July 21, 6pm at Lorimer Park.

Practices held Tuesday/Thursday 6pm. Saturday 9am. Various locations.

Please be sure to tune in to one of our two Parent Zoom Meetings next week to get full info -- Monday July 13 or Thursday July 16 both at 8pm. See Zoom info below.

To register, start here or click the "Join Our Team - Register Now" link in the navigation above.

Have a question? Reply or ring me anytime!

Coach John Raisch
215 704-1556

---------------
SoMont Parents Zoom Info Meeting #1
July 13, 2020 8:00 PM

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 851 7769 7879
Password: mtb4life
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---------------
SoMont Parents Zoom Info Meeting #2
Jul 16, 2020 08:00

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Tuesday, June 16, 2020

2020 Season Update - Gearing Up!

Thank you everyone for your patience as we all deal with the Covid-19 situation.

As of June 15 as long as Montgomery County trends toward GREEN status, we will continue to plan for our 2020 season. With parts of the state already in GREEN, PICL/NICA are looking to open registration soon.

As of right now many things are still undecided, but progress is taking shape quickly. We expect to start practice during the second or third week of July. Official season events and calendar are still coming together with PICL.

If you have a question, please contact team director John Raisch at 215 704-1556 or jraisch@gmail.com


Wednesday, December 18, 2019

2020 Season Starts Soon!

With the 2019 season having come to a close, and the 2020 season just around the corner, we want to provide some helpful links to anyone interested in joining the team in 2020.

Here's what you need to know:

  • Registration for 2020 will start around April 1. We will also begin to have a number of preseason events starting April 1.
  • Official practice season starts in July of 2020. We will practice 3 days a week -- Tuesday 6pm, Thursday 6pm and Saturday 9am. Practice will be held at Lorimer Park and the new Twining Valley Park in Upper Dubin Township.
  • We are always in need of coaches to help lead rides, support rides and give skills instruction. Please reach out to us if you are interested in coaching or helping out the team in any way you can.
To learn more about the team, read our FAQ page.

Interested in getting a feel for the league and the team, check out the videos page.

You can always check out the NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) page or the PICL (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League) Page.

Lastly, if you are interested in coaching or have any general questions for us, contact us using this email address: info@somontcycling.org


Wednesday, February 6, 2019

Gearing Up for the 2019 Season!

We are gearing up for 2019! Pre-season starts April 1. Practice starts July 7. Race and Adventure events start in September. Contact us now to sign up.