October 12, 2007 – Over the next four days, Cycling BC will put 16 of their best under 19 year-old endurance riders through a series of tests, interviews, and talks to see how we can best help our future Olympic hopefuls reach their goals.

All riders will undergo a baseline physiological test at the PacificSport Performance Lab in Victoria to establish their current level of fitness and to give us a better idea of training levels going into the winter. This is the first time the Provincial Team will be going through the exact same tests as the National Team, which will help us identify our future National level athletes. Athletes will also be given advice on nutrition for performance, and a talk from Canadian Cycling’s Lead Exercise Physiologist about what these tests mean and how to use the information.

After two days of testing and information sessions, all riders will go through an interview process with Cycling BC Coaches, to understand their individual needs and goals. Based on this information, individualized plans will be drawn up to support them.

When riders are not being put through their paces in the test, or getting advice, they will be either hard at work studying or out for group rides. This is our first step in introducing our long-term strategic plan with targeted athletes, aiming at preparing out athletes for success at the London Olympic Games in 2012. Look out for more information on the Cycling BC website in the future at www.cyclingbc.net