BushRATS
The RATS Cycling Club BushRATS junior coaching program has been developed to fill a role in encouraging junior riders to enjoy the sport of mountain biking, and learn riding skills in a safe and supportive environment.
BushRATS is a low-cost, school-term program, run on Sunday afternoons from Karingal Scout Camp at Mt Cotton. Some of the trails are specially built for the BushRATS program, and the park is not publicly accessible, ensuring predominantly clear trails for the children.
The classes run for 90 minutes, and are open to girls and boys between the ages of 5 and 15. We have AusCycling accredited instructors.
The classes are kept to small groups to encourage more one-on-one interaction.
BushRATS has been developed with the support and guidance of the team at Coot-tha Kids, who have been instrumental in creating and encouraging junior mountain biking programs in southeast Queensland. The RATS Cycling Club committee acknowledges this assistance and thanks Coot-tha Kids and Ironbark Kids.
For more information about BushRATS, please email bushrats@ratscc.com.au or follow our club Facebook page. Registration links prior to each term will be posted there. Numbers are limited.
Words of wisdom from BushRATS coordinator John:
“The BushRATS mountain bike coaching program can be an incredible opportunity for children to develop important skills, make new friends, and have a ton of fun. Here are some of the key benefits:
Community: Mountain biking is a fantastic way to connect with others who share your interests. By participating in a coaching program, children will have the opportunity to meet and ride with other kids who are passionate about mountain biking. This helps foster a sense of community and belonging, which is especially important for children who may be new to the sport.
Confidence: Learning to ride a mountain bike can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By participating in a coaching program, children can develop the skills they need to become confident and capable riders. As they progress and tackle more difficult trails, they’ll gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities.
Fun: Mountain biking is a thrilling and exciting sport, and it’s a great way to get kids outdoors and active. By participating in a coaching program, children will have the opportunity to explore new trails, learn new skills, and challenge themselves in a safe and supportive environment.
Inclusivity: Mountain biking is a sport that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages and most abilities. A good coaching program will be designed to be inclusive and accessible so that children can participate and feel comfortable.
Friendship: Participating in a coaching program can be a great way for kids to make new friends. By spending time together on the trails, children will have the opportunity to bond over their shared love of mountain biking and to develop lasting friendships that extend beyond the program itself.
Overall, a kids’ mountain bike coaching program can be an amazing opportunity for children to develop important life skills, make new friends, and have a ton of fun. It’s a great way to foster a love of the outdoors and to help kids develop a sense of confidence and independence that will serve them well throughout their lives.”