Youth Racing
Velo NB is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of cyclists. Our youth racing, aligned with Cycling Canada’s Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model, focuses on skill development, confidence building, and fostering a lifelong passion for cycling.
We also work to develop and sustain a Provincial Youth Race Series that targets U13, U15, and U17 athlete participation with a clear goal: to promote the creation or adaptation of events with age-appropriate categories, on courses and distances tailored to youth development. These events follow Canadian Cycling Association LTAD recommendations to ensure the racing experience supports long-term skill progression and enjoyment.
Is Youth Racing Right for Your Child?
Whether your child is just discovering cycling or already has experience on the race course, youth racing in New Brunswick is open to riders aged 7 to 18 of all skill levels, identities, abilities, and backgrounds. It’s a welcoming, supportive environment where young athletes can build confidence, develop new skills, and have fun on two wheels.
How to Get Started
Getting involved is easy. Youth cycling clubs provide structured training and group rides led by certified coaches. Riders can progress into provincial development and performance pathways.
Explore our Site Sections on:
Coaching, Long Term Athlete Development, Safe Sport, HopOn and Youth Programs.
- Find a Local Club
Connect with community-based clubs offering youth racing programs:
- Dieppe Cycling Centre
- Vélo Kent
- River Valley Cycling
2. Get a Velo NB Competitive License
A Competitive License is required to take part in sanctioned races. It provides insurance coverage and directly supports the growth of cycling programs and events throughout New Brunswick.
3. Gear Up
Visit your local bike shop to get the basics:
- Water bottle
- A properly sized bike (based on your discipline)
- Helmet
- Cycling attire
4. Attend Youth Programs and Clinics
Many clubs offer youth-focused programs that build skills and confidence through group rides, coaching, and fun, supportive training sessions.
The HopOn national grassroots program aims to provide access to cycling across Canada. HopOn is overseen by Cycling Canada and delivered locally by Velo NB.
The Hop On program teaches safe riding skills and introduces racing for children aged five to twelve.
Provincial Youth Series events use age-appropriate courses and distances. Riders are challenged in ways that match their developmental stage — whether that’s a fun singletrack loop or a short, safe road circuit.
Race Formats:
- Short Track XC (XCC)
- Cross-Country Olympic (XCO)
- Cyclocross (CX)
- Road Time Trials & Circuit Races
- Downhill
- Enduro
Race Categories by Age
| Category | Age Range |
| U9 | 7-8 |
| U13 | 9-12 |
| U15 | 13-14 |
| U17 | 15-16 |
| U19 | 17-18 |
Youth Policy: LTAD & Race Guidelines
We follow Cycling Canada’s LTAD Companion Guide for recommended race formats and durations. Organizers may adjust based on venue constraints, while still respecting developmental goals.
At events where not all youth categories are offered, age groups may be combined (e.g. U15 riders grouped with U17), with organizer and Velo NB approval.
| Category | Sub-Categories | Time (min.) | Time (max.) |
| U9 | Male & Female | 5 | 20 |
| U11 | Male & Female | 10 | 30 |
| U13 | Male & Female | 25 | 45 |
| U15 | Male & Female | 35 | 55 |
| U17 | Male | 45 | 75 |
| U17 | Male | 45 | 65 |