news NorCal High School MTB Competition Heats Up

Over the past decade, Marin county high school mountain bike teams have grown significantly and are taking charge with impressive results. In the first Norcal League race of 2018, three Marin schools stamped their authority on the event in Monterey. Tamalpais, Drake and Redwood High Schools swept the team podium – coming in first, second and third respectively among all Division 1 teams in Northern California. The birthplace of mountain biking could also be home to the strongest mountain bike teams in the state.

At the Monterey race, Drake’s Dylan Fryer finished first in the varsity Division I race first. However, Tam High scored more points with strong finishes by  Julian LePelch and Clodagh Mellett, netting them the Division One title. Mina Ricci, an independent rider from San Geronimo, won the varsity girls race, with Julie Raddue, an independent from Marin Academy, placing 10th.

Though Drake High has won the state title for the last three seasons, this strong showing by the Tam squad made it clear that it will be quite a contest this year.

The overall growth of Norcal High School racing continues to draw strong involvement from girls and boys. For many of of us who have been involved with mountain biking since the beginning, this comes as no surprise.  Mountain biking combines fun, excitement, appreciation of nature, discipline of training, the camaraderie of the sport, the color and intensity of the races and the community aspect of the team. Strong support comes from many of the parents. Some are deeply involved in the coaching and training of the athletes as well as providing support during the races which happen all over Northern California.  Teams often rival or surpass the size of their school’s football squads.

It’s encouraging to see another generation becoming responsible and accomplished riders within the growing cycling community.  And a big “thank you” to the tireless efforts of parents and coaches who volunteer their time to provide teens a terrific platform for their growth, confidence, health and to respect the rules of the trail.

More info about Norcal High School League racing can be found at NorcalMTB.org