ABOUT US
We are Lost in the Woods Mountain Biking (MTB), a non profit organization located in Central Ohio supporting youth development through mountain biking. Our organization supports five National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) teams, open to grades 6-12, participating in the Ohio MTB League. The experience of our student athletes ranges from State Champions to new riders, all are welcome!
While our student athletes are encouraged to participate in race events, joining the team does not require student athletes to race. There are no cuts and no bench; everyone rides no matter their ability level.
In our first NICA season (2021), our team quickly grew to become the largest team in Ohio with 38 student athletes and 18 amazing volunteer coaches. In 2023, we grew to 87 student athletes and 48 coaches.
In 2023, our non profit organization also launched our club team, Lost in the Woods Racing, which operates independently from our NICA youth teams. LITW Racing provides an opportunity for experienced youth and adults to ride and race together in a variety of cycling events across the region.
OUR GOALS
Ride and Race Safely
Have Fun
Include and Value Every Rider
Develop Skills and Build Fitness
Connect with Nature
OUR COACHES
LITW coaches are squarely focused on creating a team culture that is welcoming, safe, and fun. We strive to teach riders that mountain biking is a life-long activity for good health, to develop a connection to the outdoors and to enjoy nature with friends and family. We emphasize teamwork and creating stronger and more confident student athletes both on and off the bike.
All NICA coaches are certified and licensed through the NICA training program.
2023 RESULTS
- 20 new student athletes completed their first MTB race
- 29 racers finished on a race podium this season (Top 5)
- 18 racers finished on the overall series podium for the 2023 season, including 4 State Champions
- LITW Composite team finished the season in 3rd Place
- LITW Olentangy team finished as repeat State Champions
- 28 High School racers finished in the top 15 of their category and qualified for the first ever NICA Eastern Regional Championships with top racers from 11 states
- 260 hours were donated to support our local trails and the team received the OMBL Golden Shovel for most volunteer hours
- We had A LOT of FUN!!
2024 SEASON
In 2024, our non profit organization will support over 200 incredible student athletes, coaches and volunteers!
For the NICA season, we will operate five youth teams: LITW Olentangy, LITW Westerville, LITW Worthington, LITW Dublin, and LITW Composite. LITW Composite represents all other school districts in northern central Ohio. While the majority of student athletes are located in northern Franklin County and Delaware County, if you live in a surrounding county and we are the closest team to you, come join us! Our NICA teams compete in the Ohio MTB League five race series.
Our 2024 LITW Racing club team (non-NICA) will hold weekly club rides before the start of the NICA season. Our club team will also support seven club races before and after our NICA race series. Experienced NICA student athletes will have the option to join our club rides and races.
If you would like to learn more, take a few minutes to explore our site and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.
If you are interested in joining us as a NICA student athlete or coach, get started below!
NICA LEAGUE INFORMATION
Ohio MTB League
League launched in 2021 with 18 teams and 224 student athletes from all across Ohio. Check out the OMBL website for more information on the league and race events.
National Interscholastic Cycling Association
Founded in 2009, NICA develops interscholastic mountain biking programs across the United States. In 2021, 31 leagues operated in 29 states with over 26,000 student athletes and 13,000 coaches.
NICA Mission
We build strong minds, bodies, character, and communities through cycling
NICA Vision
Every youth is empowered to be part of a thriving and engaged cycling community
NICA Values
- Fun: NICA inspires friendship, joy, and adventure.
- Inclusivity: NICA believes everyone should be able to participate in our programs and feel welcomed, respected and supported.
- Equity: NICA is committed to fair treatment, equal access, opportunity, advancement and elimination of barriers to encourage participation for all.
- Respect: NICA expects consideration for all others, oneself, and the outdoors.
- Community: NICA unites diverse people, families and communities through cycling by creating fun and welcoming experiences.
If interested in learning more about NICA, watch these short 3-4 minute videos from the Utah league for a quick overview!
We are so grateful for our incredible student athletes, coaches, families and sponsors. We are building something very special together and the sky is the limit for our MTB community! Once you 'Get Lost' with us, you may never want to be found!
James Phillips, Team Director (Executive Director, JPMorgan)
TITLE SPONSOR
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
