Youth Mountain Bike Team
Who we are
We are a coed composite youth mountain bike team within the Maryland Interscholastic Cycling League, which is part of NICA. Our team consists of middle and high school students, of all athletic abilities and levels, some of whom have never ridden a bike, and some that are seasoned riders. The Bolts embody inclusivity, equity, respect, and community, while ensuring a fun and safe environment for our riders.
Click on "Learn More" to find out more about our team, learn about our season, find out when and where we practice, and see what fun events we have planned.
Visit our Blog for more information in general, helpful tips and tricks, and to further engage with the team.
We are currently planning for our 2025 season. If you are interested in riding with us, please fill out our form so we can get you on the waitlist.
Learn. Ride. Race.
Building confidence and friendships on bikes
Learn More
Join the team!
If you are interested in the 2025 season, please fill out our form so we can get you on our list! All levels welcome, coed, grades 6-12. You do not need a bike to join, we can help you secure a bike you can borrow. We can't wait to meet you!
Start of Season
The season typically starts in July with a few preseason events. We can't wait to see you!
Practices and Events
Practices take place in Patapsco State Park at one location on Tuesdays and another on Thursdays. Visit the Team App to see the calendar for preseason events and practices, or e-mail us to get more information. We can't wait to coach you!
In our FAQs, we've posted real and relevant questions we've received. But if you still have questions, please feel free to send us an e-mail. We can't wait to help you!
GRiT
Girls Riding Together
In an effort to support and encourage female student athletes and coaches, NICA developed the GRiT program. We all know that girls are stronger when we support each other and lift each other up. We are very proud of our own GRiT ambassador, Emerson Eatough!!
Setting time aside for “girls only” activities allows us to get to know each other and strengthen our mountain biking community. Check out the MICL GRiT page to stay posted on all events designed to empower our female student athletes.
Our Sponsors & Affiliations
We thank-you!
FAQs
What equipment is needed?
A mountain bike and helmet are required. You do not need to own a mountain bike in order to join the team. Please e-mail us and we can help you to secure a bike you can use, as well as a helmet. In addition, we recommend athletic shoes (sneakers are fine), and a water bottle or hydration pack.
What training do the coaches have?
All of the coaches for the Bolts are seasoned riders, very familiar with the local trails and experts in bike safety and trail etiquette. Each year the coaches complete NICA training on safety, preparedness and bike skills to ensure their riders have fun and are safe in every ride, practice and race. In addition, many of the Bolts coaches are first aid and CPR certified.
Do I have to live in Catonsville to be a part of the team?
Nope! We're a composite team meaning Bolts riders come from different area schools and towns.
What are the practices like?
The Bolts practices consist of drills, trail rides and games. As long as trail conditions are good, we will ride on the local trails. Strategic drills are often included in practices to help riders work on, and build, their skills. Often times, we end practice with some fun games like foot down. Don't know what foot down is? Come on out to a practice to see this fun Bolts tradition.
Do I have to attend all practices and events?
No. The team practices two times per week, and you can attend whatever fits best with your schedule. Although, because we work on skill building in practices, we do recommend riders attend when they can. For parents: you can drop your participant off at practice and pick them up at the scheduled end time.
Do I have to race if I join the team?
Definitely not. We encourage our riders to race, but it is not a requirement to be on the team. If a rider wants to try a race, the coaches will do everything we can to help them be prepared and ready.
I'm interested in coaching, how do I do that?
We welcome interest in coaching, the more coaches we have, the more riders we can take on! Please send us an e-mail, or talk to one of our current coaches, for more information.
Where do I find the list of dates for events, practices and races?
We use an app called Team App which houses the team calendar, news, schedule, more information on events, and has a chat function. Parents and riders can access the team section of the app once you join the team. In the meantime, if you have questions on any of our upcoming events, please send us an e-mail. In addition, the Maryland league sends out informative newsletters on upcoming events, keep an eye out for those for everything you need to know about events and races.