As summer comes to a close, it marks the beginning of an exciting season for local students—mountain bike season.
Middle and high school riders from the Tempe Union Composite and Desert Vista mountain bike teams have already begun their preparations. Starting in July, they practice on the South Mountain trails and continue racing across Arizona throughout September and October.
“I’ve never been more excited to return to the season year after year,” said Ian Rios, a rider on the Tempe Union Composite team. “The past two years have been a transformative journey. Not only have I grown personally, but I’ve also learned so much from those around me.”
The Tempe Union Composite team is open to middle and high school students within the Tempe Union School District, with the exception of students attending schools covered by the Desert Vista team. Charter, private, and home-schooled students in these boundaries are also eligible to join.
Practices for the Tempe Union team begin in mid-July, meeting at 5:30 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. As the season progresses, the practice schedule shifts to Monday and Wednesday afternoons. Training sessions take place at various locations, including Western Star Park, Kyrene de la Lomas Elementary School, and Papago Park.
To get a head start before the official season, the Tempe Union Composite team will host a series of preseason events in May and June. “These events will allow athletes to learn skills and bond with each other before we officially kick off,” said Janet Kerby, the team’s co-director.
Meanwhile, the Desert Vista Mountain Bike Team is open to students from Desert Vista High School, Altadena Middle School, Akimel Middle School, and Keystone Montessori. Their practices also begin in July, with early morning sessions at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, and evening practices at 6 p.m. on Thursdays, with Saturday morning rides. The team primarily trains at South Mountain Park and Preserve, with rides starting at Altadena Middle School or Corpus Christi Church in Ahwatukee.
Before the official season starts, the Desert Vista team will host a free MTB Day in the park, giving potential riders the chance to meet the team and learn about the sport.