Photo of Alum Creek Phase 1
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 three National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) youth teams, open to grades 6-12, competing 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 the league with 38 student athletes and 18 amazing volunteer coaches. We finished the 2023 season with 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.
Ride and Race Safely
Have Fun
Include and Value Every Rider
Build Skills and Fitness
Connect with Nature
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.
In 2024, we are planning to support 100-120 incredible NICA student athletes and 50-60 amazing NICA coaches!
We are planning to score as four sub teams: LITW Olentangy, LITW Westerville, LITW Worthington, 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!
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!
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.
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
If interested in learning more about NICA, watch these short 3-4 minute videos from the Utah league for a quick overview!
Check out this awesome drone footage from our first season at our local Chestnut Ridge race from parent Dave Smith!
Here's one more amazing drone video of our final NICA race at Camp Tuscazoar from parent Dave Smith!
For a new rider's perspective, check out this incredible interview with middle schooler Max Hauer after finishing his first MTB race ever in our first season! Max continued to gain skills and confidence during the season and completed 3 total races.
Way to go Max!
James Phillips, Team Director (Executive Director, JPMorgan)
Our amazing sponsors make this all possible! They share our passion for supporting youth development and each student athlete's ability to develop a strong body, strong mind and strong character. Together we are helping build a strong community through a healthy and fun sport that can be enjoyed far beyond high school.
Lost in the Woods MTB
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