November 29, 2010 (Toronto, ON) – After an extensive search for a candidate who has the vision and experience for this position, the OCA is pleased to announce that Mike Garrigan has accepted the position of Ontario Endurance Development Coach. Born in La Grange, Georgia, Mike has been involved with cycling for over 10 years as an athlete, coach and team manager.

Mike worked with the OCA as assistant coach at the 2009 Canada Summer Games and has taken many teams to Ontario Summer Games over the years. Mike is a NCCP level 3 coach and looking to do his NCI in 2011.

As an athlete Mike represented Canada at MTB Worlds in 2003 and was the 2007 Elite National Cyclo-cross champion. Mike also is a very good skier and trained hard at both sports while under the guidance of coach Steve Neal.

Mike will be responsible for the development of coaches and athletes within the province with an eye on recruitment. This position will report to the OHPSI Head Coach and will be heavily focussed on projects, camps and development opportunities.

Mike’s first official day on the job will be Monday January 3rd, 2011.

We spoke to Mike about this position:

“I am very excited about my new role as Provincial Endurance Development Coach after working at the OCA for 2 years as Provincial Mountain Bike Coordinator.

I have 9 years of racing experience in both national and international events including Mountain Bike, Cyclo-cross, Road and Downhill.

Some great coaches and mentors have inspired and motivated me to help others and I greatly enjoy helping aspiring athletes. I have been coaching for the past 8 years. I am certified as a Level 3 Mountain Bike Coach and have experience leading trips in Canada and the U.S.

In the fall and winter I enjoy racing Cyclo-cross, and have done some racing on my Cross-country skis and snowboard for fun. In the summer I love travelling, building trails and just about any sport except for swimming in the ocean—who knows what’s lurking in the dark water”. – Mike Garrigan