OC 2026 Rising Stars MTB Camp
Ontario Cycling will be hosting a Rising Stars Mountain Bike Camp in Sault Ste. Marie Sep. 1-4. The camp will be led by Provincial MTB Coach, Malcolm Barton, with support and technical expertise from other certified coaches and experienced ride leaders. The camp in centered around an exciting week of racing with the Canadian XCM Championships (Sep. 5) and MTB OCup#4 (Sep. 6) –providing athletes an opportunity for both training and race exposure.
The Rising Stars Camp Athletes will focus in enhancing technical ability under on some of the best trails this province has the offer. In addition to on bike skill development, athletes will have the opportunity to connect with athletes from a variety of locations that will provide a strengthened sense of community for our next generation of athletes.
Camp Overview
• 4 Sessions (1/day) group-based instruction using a variety of coaches
• Off-bike Workshops (nutrition, activations, race prep.)
• On Trail Video Analysis
Skill focus will include:
- Cornering
- Drops
- Body positioning
- Braking
- Race preparation
Cost
- No Cost for all OC members (UCI, Compete, or challenge licence)
- Non members will be charged camp fee of $65 (equivalent to OC Challenge licence)
Athlete Requirements
- Aged 13-16 in 2026 (exceptions considered on a case by case basis)
- Must have previous MTB Race experience (Weekly Series, Regional, Provincial etc.)
- Ability to complete 3 hours of on trail riding and instruction
- Basic bike mechanic knowledge
Athlete Selection Process
While the camp is intended to be open to all that meet the requirements above, applications will be reviewed to ensure appropriateness of the camp.
While the camp is intended to be open to all that meet the requirements above, applications will be reviewed to ensure appropriateness of the camp.
Application
All interested athletes are asked to submit an application by June 15, 2026. This will allow us time to effectively plan for the camp with appropriate coaches and experts.
Agenda – Subject to Change
- Tuesday Sept. 1 | 10:00am – 2:00pm | Skills and Endurance
- Wednesday Sept. 2 | 9:00am – 11:00am | Skills Session
11:00am – 12:00pm | Lunch
12:00pm – 2:00pm | Education/Race Mindset
2:00 – 4:00pm | Bike Workshop
Evening | Weekly Race (Talent ID) - Thursday Sept. 3 | 10:00am- 2:00pm | Skills & long Ride on XCM Course
- Friday Sept. 4 | 9:00am – 11:00am | Ride the OCup Course
