The proprietors of a mountain bike training/coaching business dubbed Gravity MTB are bringing a new spin to academics.
The husband and wife team of Chad Hendren and CJ Hird have started a school program at Lake Trail that aims to boost self-confidence on bikes, and sharpen students’ focus in the classroom. They teach a variety of skills to riders of all levels: cornering, braking, accelerating, climbing, descending, balance, safety and trail etiquette.
“We have 18 kids that are going to ride with us every Friday for the whole spring semester,” Hird said. “We’re hoping the skills they learn with us will reflect in academics and personal lives. It just gives them more confidence. They’ll be learning some good skills — and pushing themselves. I think that they can apply that to so many things.”
The couple started the business last year after moving to the Valley from the Squamish/North Shore area. They have worked and coached in the industry in Whistler the last 15 years.
“We thought it was good timing here in the Valley,” Hird said. “Business is starting to take off.”
A mountain bike coach the past 15 years, Hendren has competed in numerous events, including the Enduro World Series. Hird also has a competitive sports background, and has worked in the health/fitness industry as an instructor and as a coach.
Their school program has been a true community effort: Lake Trail counsellor Jana Buckle applied for a grant to help fund the program; the school’s Parent Advisory Council donated money to purchase second-hand bikes; and Canadian Tire Jumpstart sponsored students. Simon’s Cycles, Trail Bicycles and Dodge City Cycles have also helped by donating and repairing bikes.
In the summer, Gravity MTB will be running camps at Mt. Washington.
Hendren and Hird also offer race clinics and private coaching.
“We’re finding a lot of the adult riders here are more intermediate/expert level. But there’s still people who want to learn,” she said.
Another aspect of the business is a bike recycling program.
“We’re going to collect bikes, and then work with the community to give them to families, and people in need,” Hird said.
For more information, visit gravitymtb.ca. The business can also be found on Facebook and Instagram.