Fernie Flyers Cycling has been well represented in events so far this season. The Fernie Flyers is a new cycling society with the goal of developing a grass-roots style racing team for all ages and abilities. The team offers a supportive environment of like-minded racers to train with, race with and share tips with.
Team members Carter Nieuwesteeg, Jack Viney and Jesse Mong participated in the Intense Fernie 3 bike event in late June. Carter placed 2nd in his category (Men 16 – 29) and 20th overall. Carter has been coached by Martin Vale, Fernie Flyers director and coach and ex-national team racer.
Carter Nieuwesteeg at the Intense Fernie 3
Photo Credit: Raven Eye Photography
Jack Viney was not far behind placing 3rd in his category (Men 16 – 29) and 25th overall. Jack is from Tasmania and is currently ripping up Fernie trails and working at Tourism Fernie as a writer and social media guru.
Jack Viney (left) and Carter Nieuwesteeg (right) at the awards banquet
Jesse Mong experienced flat tire issues at the Fernie 3 but recently kept his wheels spinning and placed 3rd in the Men’s Solo 40+ at the Canmore 24 hours of Adrenaline Mountain Bike Race. This was Jesse’s best performance ever in the 24 hour event, one of mountain biking’s premier events. Jesse has been riding and racing in Fernie for a decade and is frequently at the bike park with his young family.
Jesse Mong riding in Canmore 24 Hour
Carter and Jack will both be representing the Fernie Flyers this coming week in the Singletrack 6, a 6 day stage event starting in Kananaskis Country and ending in Revelstoke.
The Fernie Flyers ran an eight week spring training camp for kid’s aged eight to 16 that prepared them to participate in the Fernie 3 U16 and U13 cross country race. These kid’s were trained by local coaches and all were winners with a brilliant performance and a high level of competition.
The Fernie Flyers just finished one of two summer camps, which included four days of riding for all levels of ability, ages 10 – 18. The camp focused on progressive skill development, instructional trail riding, guided mileage, safety and fun.
The next camp is August 11 – 14, with younger kids (eight to 12) from 9am to 1pm and older kids(13 to 18) from 8:30am to 10:30am and 5:30pm – 7:30pm. Groups selection is also based on ability. The cost is $130 which includes a Fernie Flyers Jersey – Cycle BC insurance is extra.
Fernie Flyers Cycling is a registered non-profit organization. Membership can be purchased as a “participant” or “friend” and family rates are available, with proceeds going back into program development and the Fernie Trails Alliance.
