Frequently Asked Questions

Kids of Mud welcomes all children under the age of 17, provided they are able to ride off-road without the use of training wheels. 

We maintain a cancellation policy due to associated administration fees for registration cancellations. The policy is as follows: 

  • Prior to week 1: An administrative cost of $20.00 will be withheld. 
  • Week 1-3: 50% of the program fee will be returned. 
  • After Week 3: No refund will be provided. 

Special Consideration: Riders with a certifiable medical disability may be eleigible for a prorate refund, excluding the administration fee. 

An appropriately sized bike equipped with hand brakes and gears is highly recommended. We strongly advise having your bike inspected by a trained professional to ensure a safe and trouble-free cycling season. While we can make minor adjustments and repairs during events, please be aware that this may divert our attention from coaching responsibilities.

The following links provide additional resources to help ensure that your bike is safe for the Kids of Mud program. 

Bike Safety Checklist
Bike Fit and Buying Guide

 

Yes, helmets are a program requirement! Helmets must be worn at all events. They must be CSA certified and properly sized for your child’s head. We can assist in fitting the helmets and setting up the straps. 

It is strongly advised for the protection of the eyes and hands. Given that a significant portion of our rides takes place off-road, there may be instances where your child could tip off their bike. You’ll observe that many coaches wear gloves and sunglasses for added safety.

Closed-toed shoes are a mandatory requirement for the KOM program. Athletes are not allowed to wear sandals for safety reasons. 

No, cycling shorts are not a requirement. However, while not mandatory it is recommended. Cycling shorts offer added protection to sensitive areas, particularly during longer rides. 

YES! Parents are encouraged to join our rides, but it is essential that they wear a CSA certified helmet. 

All parents and volunteers must possess a general or racing licencs with their province. 

  • Manitoba: Manitoba Cycling Association (MCA) Membership 
  • Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Cycling Association (SCA) Membership
  • Alberta: Alberta Bicycle Membership

What should be brought to practice? 
Essentials: 

  • Bike
  • Helmet
  • Gloves
  • Glasses 
  • Water/Sports drink

Good to have: 

  • Spare tube & pump 
  • small tool kit including a patch kit
  • Food (e.g., granola/energy bar, gel, raisins)
  • Personal first aid kit

We also recommend: 

  •  CHANGE OF CLOTHES- you might work up a sweat while riding, and we have been known to get muddy once in a while!
  • A garbage bag for your wet and muddy clothes. 
  • Wallet-sized laminated ID card with name/address/phone, health numbers, allergy/meds infor, etc. 
  • Your Manitoba Cycling Association License (this is needed at time of check in). Your coach CAN NOT verify your category or that you are registered in the Kids of Mud program, your license does this.
  • Bike Plate ~ securely fastened to your handle bar; in front of the brake cables (nothing should obscure the plate number).
  • Water/Sports drink ~ you should be drinking water prior to, during and after each race.
  • Food ~ make sure you don’t have an empty stomach prior to a race, but keep in mind not to eat a heavy meal. Bring some snacks to eat after each race (chocolate milk, granola bar, veggies, fruit, bagel with cream cheese or tuna salad are all good choices).
  • All clubs will be present so there will be a lot of kids. Drive carefully into the parking lot.
  • Find the registration table and register for the race at least 30 minutes prior to your start time.
  • There will be a staging area and a finish area. Know where you need to be before you need to be there.
  • Race Officials (Commissaires) will do roll call at the start line. You must be ready to race and in or near the staging area 10 minutes prior to your race time. Race days can be very hectic, relax and go with the flow. After all it is still just about having FUN!

A pre-ride gets your heart rate up and introduces you to the course. It is the rider’s resposibility to know the course. 

There will be sections indicating Age Group Staging areas. The commissaire will indicate when staging will commence, and then your chil’s name will be called in attendance, by age group. 

All age groups will line up at the Start line. Once the whistle blows, everyone in that age category will start at the same time. It is VERY important to be on time at the start line.

Have Questions? Ask Us ABout the Kids of Mud Program!