ABOUT US
OUR TEAM
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 local National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) teams open to beginner through advanced youth (grades 6+), competing in the Ohio MTB League. NICA student athletes receive skills instruction from our NICA certified youth coaches. Our organization also supports our club team, Lost in the Woods Racing, which operates independent of our NICA youth teams and provides an opportunity for experienced youth and adults to ride and race together in events across the region.
In our first NICA season (2021), with the support of 18 amazing volunteer coaches, our team quickly grew to become the largest team in the league with 38 student athletes from 8 school districts. We finished our second season with 75 student athletes and 33 coaches. Our student athlete's experience 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.
OUR GOALS
Ride and Race Safely
Have Fun
Include and Value Every Rider
OUR NICA 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.
2022 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
- Thirteen high school racers placed in the TOP 5 for the NICA series (6 State Champions, 3 Runner Ups, 1 Third, 2 Fourth, 1 Fifth)
- Eleven middle school racers finished on the podium in at least one race this season
- LITW-Big Walnut finished as the STATE RUNNER UP in D2 (less than 10 riders)
- LITW-Composite finished as the STATE RUNNER UP in D1
- LITW-Olentangy finished as STATE CHAMPIONS in D1
- Thirty six youth racers completed their first MTB race ever this year!
- We had A LOT of FUN!!
2023 SEASON
In 2023, we are planning to support 150+ total club members, including 85+ incredible NICA student athletes and 40+ amazing NICA coaches! Follow us on our socials to watch our progress!
If you would like to learn more about us, 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 an athlete or coach, contact us 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 Ohio MTB League 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 team of talented student athletes, coaches, volunteers, families and sponsors. We have built something very special together and the sky is the limit for this team! Once you 'Get Lost' with us, you may never want to be found!
James Phillips, Team Director (Executive Director, JPMorgan)
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
