NORTHERN Inland Academy of Sport’s Mountain Bike team is progressing well as it prepares for a cross-country series.
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The seven-strong NIAS squad had a recent training camp at The Fat Tyre Farm, just north of Armidale where they enjoyed some great single track work, said NIAS’ Pip Benham.
“The day consisted of track work, a time trial and some advanced skill sessions in the morning,” she said.
“With the fantastic weather dished out the track was in perfect condition for this style of training.
“After an intensive lunch session which included social media, interview and mechanical techniques it was back on the track for some more skill sessions. The final sessions of the day were focused on race starts and obstacles.
NIAS head coach, Dave Harris, said the weekend was “really focused on getting the athletes to gel as a team”.
“Although MTB is an individual sport, it is essential that these guys learn to work in a team environment,” said Harris.
He said training will “start to ramp up” with the squad beginning a lengthy base section of training.
“Base is when the athletes teach their body to get used to longer periods on the bike, we then do some really specific speed work
“For Athletes to be successful in the Cross Country Olympic (XCO) format they need to be able to ride single track really fast,” Harris said.
“The team is progressing well and they continue to perform in the local races which is giving them some good experience but we need to get them racing at a much higher level for them to take the next step.
“I have high expectations that these athletes can be competitive at a National level, but it’s now about concentrating on the state titles in August.”