ABOUT US
Lost in the Woods Mountain Biking (LITW MTB) is a Central Ohio–based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to youth development through mountain biking.
Our organization supports five teams within the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), open to students in grades 6–12, who participate in the Ohio Mountain Bike League.
Our student-athletes range from State Champions to brand-new mountain bikers — and all are welcome.
While participation in race events is encouraged, racing is never required. There are no cuts and no bench. Everyone rides, regardless of ability level.
During our inaugural 2021 season, we supported 38 student-athletes and 18 volunteer coaches. We now support more than 200 student athletes, coaches and volunteers across Central Ohio.
In 2023, we expanded our mission by launching Lost in the Woods Racing, an independent club team providing experienced youth and adults the opportunity to ride and race together in regional and national events across multiple cycling disciplines.
In 2026, we further expanded our mission by launching Females Lost in Cycling (FLiC), focused on creating more opportunities for girls and women of all ages to engage together through cycling.
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.
2025 RESULTS
- 28 new student athletes completed their first MTB race!
- 42 racers finished on a race podium this season (Top 5)
- 24 racers finished on the overall series podium for the season, including 7 State Champions
- LITW Composite finished as State Champion in Division 1
- LITW Olentangy finished as State Runner Up in Division 1
- LITW Worthington finished as State Runner Up in Division 2
- LITW Dublin finished Third in Division 2
- LITW Westerville finished Fifth in Division 2
- 19 High School racers competed in the NICA Eastern Regional Championships in Maryland with top racers from 11 states
- Over 500 hours were donated to support our local trails and the team received three OMBL Golden Shovels
- We had A LOT of FUN!!
2026 SEASON
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 LITW Racing club team (non-NICA) will hold weekly club rides before the start of the NICA season. LITW Racing will also support a variety club races throughout the year. 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
