AYC
At times, sports can be used to better one’s future by drawing on the strength of one’s past. That is the theme that drives Aboriginal Youth Cycling (AYC), the newest addition to the program line-up at the Burnaby Velodrome.
A unique program, AYC, encourages Aboriginal youth to develop confidence and leadership skills while riding on one of the few indoor Velodromes in the Northern Hemisphere. In AYC we want to foster an atmosphere that enables youth to draw on the strength of their cultural heritage and, at the same time, show them the benefits of riding as a recreational activity and as a healthy lifestyle.
Within the first four sessions at the track youth can expect to learn:
- How to ride a fixed gear bicycle
- The different markings on the track
- Proper etiquette while riding at the velodrome
- How to ride a straight line (both as an individual and in a group
- How to ride in a rotating pace-line
- Standing start technique
- 500 meter time trial bicycle race
Who Can Participate
- Aboriginal youth ages 10-24
- All skill levels and abilities
- Any one interested in making new friends
Cost
As an AYC participant your first four sessions, including equipment and instruction, are FREE.
After that, drop in is $7 per session and annual membership is $120. If you aren’t in a position to pay please be sure to talk to the Program Coordinator or your instructor, the Aboriginal Youth Cycling program is subsidized by the Burnaby Velodrome Club and there are alternative payment options available to those in need.
When to Come
We love to see new faces at the Velodrome and encourage all eligible individuals to participate! Because it takes time for novice riders to acclimate to the riding conditions at the track, we ask new riders to come out on the first Friday of the month.
Since the AYC program runs on a four week rotating schedule, having new riders come out on the first Friday of the month ensures that they receive the instructor's undivided attention. After participants complete the four-week introductory program, they are welcome to drop in whenever AYC's are on the track.
What to Bring
If it is your first time coming out to the track you'll want to make sure you bring the following items:
- Signed Release Waiver (guardian signatures are required for youths under
18,
download Release Waiver here) - Bicycle Helmet (limited number available to lend at facility)
- Closed-toed shoes
- Light Jacket
- Athletic Shorts
- Water Bottle
Show Your Support
There are many ways you can contribute to the program, if you are interested please contact the program coordinator at ayc@burnabyvelodrome.ca for details.