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New Rider Parent Info

Who Can Join?

  • Ages: Pre-K through 12th grade (for the upcoming school year).
  • Skill Requirement: Must be able to ride a bike without training wheels.

Where and When Do We Practice?

Locations

  1. Franke Park, Fort Wayne
    • Directions: Google Maps
    • Details: Turn into the main entrance for Franke Park/Zoo on Park Drive, then curve left. Pass the pavilion and duck pond, continue up the hill toward the BMX track, and through the gate at the far side of the lot. Head right at the T to find the gravel lot near Derby Hill where we gather.
  2. Winona Lake Trails, Warsaw
    • Directions: Google Maps
    • Details: Park at the new trailhead off Pierceton Road. If you pass the Miller Athletic Complex, you've gone too far. Be aware that Google Maps may lead to the wrong location when using the address, so use the link provided.

Schedule

  • When: Most Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 6–8 PM, late June to end of October. See calendar for details.
  • Practices are at Franke on Tuesday and Winona on Wednesday. 
  • Check TeamSnap before heading to practice for last-minute updates.

How Much Does It Cost?

  • Registration Fee: $60 for the first youth rider + $30 for each additional sibling.
  • Includes:
    • $30 3RVS Family Membership (covers insurance and benefits).
    • $30 Team Fee (covers team registration, t-shirt, and first aid supplies).

Register Here

What Do I Bring for Practice? 

  • Bike: In good working order with bar plugs (no open bar ends).
  • Helmet: Properly fitted and snug.
  • Team Shirt: Wear your orange practice shirt or jersey.
  • Hydration and Snacks: Enough for a two-hour practice.
  • Repair Kit: Include a spare tube, tire levers, and a bike pump/CO2 inflator.
  • Bike Light (Fall Practices): Required from late September to November. We recommend the NiteRider Lumina 850 (or brighter) with handlebar and helmet mounts.

Ride Groups

At the first practice, youth riders will receive group assignments based on age and ability. Riders should meet their group at the start of practice. If adjustments are needed, let us know to ensure your rider has the best experience.

Maintenance and Trails

Bike Maintenance

  • Get your bike tuned up at a local bike shop before the season begins to ensure it’s in excellent working order. Early spring is the best time to avoid delays.

Trail Maintenance

Our local trails are maintained by volunteers! Please consider helping out:

  • Franke Park MTB or Summit City Singletrack (Fort Wayne)
  • Winona Lake Trails (Warsaw)
  • Morsches Park Trail Group (Columbia City)

Join their Facebook groups for updates on trail conditions and maintenance days.

Racing and Camping

Races

  • DINO Series: Includes youth and adult races. Learn more at the DINO Website.
  • MiSCA Series: A six-race youth series in Michigan. Pre-registration is required. Visit the MiSCA Website.

Camping

Trailblazer families often camp together at race venues, riding trails and enjoying team camaraderie. Check the Trailblazer Moms (& Dads/Coaches too) page on Facebook for camping details.

Communication and Contact

  • Email: youthdevo@3RVS.com
  • Text Reminders: Use TeamSnap, our primary communication tool. Download the TeamSnap app when you register. You will receive an email invitation to join our TeamSnap group. 
  • Website: Check our calendar for events.
  • Facebook:
    • Public Page: 3RVS Trailblazers Youth Mountain Bike Team (event updates and photos).
    • Private Group: Trailblazer Moms (& Dads/Coaches too) (camping and team event details).
  • Instagram: Follow us at _____________ for updates and photos.