The AHS Mountain Bike Team is among many fall sports but is unique, not only because they have kids from nearby mountain towns, such as Basalt, but because they this year, against all the odds,  have two 11-year olds on the team.

Sixth graders at Aspen Middle school, Brody Fox and Chase Kelly are the young new athletes that add spark to the mountain bike team.

“Joining the high school team is definitely cool, but it’s also extremely hard to keep up with the older kids.” Youngest member of the team Fox states, “Thankfully the other kids on the team are really nice [to us].”

When asked the reason of the unusual recruit, head coach John Delk said that bringing in young athletes to the team sets them up for success for future years of biking.

“The Mountain Bike Team is governed by the National Interscholastic Cycling Association. Under NICA rules, middle school students can attend high school practice with permission from the coach. We invited a few specific young riders to start training with the high school athletes. These riders have been riding for many years and have a certain level of skill and fitness that allows them to train with the high school athletes,” said Delk. “They also required a bit more challenge than we were going to be able to provide at the middle school club. This was a way to make sure the most riders were being given the best opportunities.”

Thanks to the amazing crew of coaches, the kids find new friends while they do what they love. At practice, it’s clear that the coaches love what they do too.

“It is really, really fun. We often split groups based on ability and desire for the day. Sometimes I go out with a more relaxed group and pedal a casual pace and socialize with the athletes. Sometimes I go out with the kids training to race and we will put in a monster ride with tons of climbing and descending,” Delk said. He added, the best part is seeing the kids love biking and see the team grow.  

AHS math teacher, Paul Stucki said that he loves biking and sharing his love with the student athletes.

“I have always enjoyed riding and racing mountain bikes. I am thrilled to be able to share that passion with others, and help them to develop a lifelong sport they can enjoy for many years to come,” said Stucki.

The AHS mountain bike team meets for practice every Tuesday and Thursday after school. If interested, talk to Paul Stucki, he will hook you up with the team!