Junior Development Camp a Big Success

1/12/11 - This past weekend marked the 5th annual Southern California Nevada Cycling Association Junior Camp. The SCNCA Junior program is managed by Dominic Galenti, owner of INCYCLE Bicycles. The camp, directed by Dominic, was held at the Keck Graduate Institute in Claremont.  Claremont will be hosting Stage 7 of the Tour of California this year.

 
90 Juniors attended the Junior Development Camp.

The camp is usually held at the San Dimas Hospital but due to the overwhelming attendance and logistical challenges, a change in venue was required.  The Keck Graduate Institute graciously offered to donate space in their largest lecture hall. “The location was perfect with ample parking, low traffic and professional meeting room accommodations,” commented one of the volunteers.

The camp, which is free of charge to kids from ages 10-18 and all cycling abilities, hosted 90 riders this year. The camp provides junior riders throughout the SCNCA area an opportunity to learn different facets of cycling including basic riding skills, teamwork, and racing strategy. 

 
The Keck Graduate Institute in Claremont provided the classroom setting.

SC Velo, a local cycling club, provides most of the volunteer support for the camp. “The camp ran so smoothly, this went better than our first year, and that year we had fewer than 20 kids”, said SC Velo Club President, David Miller. Professional cycling coach, Michael Heitz is hired to direct the program each year. “Michael does a great job and has an amazing way to connect with all the kids.” said Dominic Galenti.

 
The camp brought out smiles in the Juniors.

This year was the biggest year with 90 kids attending.  “I have never had a camp this big before!” stated Mr Heitz.  Volunteering their time, cycling industry professionals Tony Cruz, from Cruz Industries, and Dostie Bausch, from Empower Coaching came out to ride with the kids, offer advice and words of encouragement.