Cycling
Cycling VJC Devo Program
The VJC Devo Program is designed for high school athletes ages 14–18 (grades 9–12) who are looking to further develop their cycling skills and gain meaningful racing experience. This program builds on the foundation developed in Junior Rollers and introduces athletes to more structured training, higher-level competition, and increased individual responsibility in their development as cyclists.
The Devo team emphasizes a balance between skill development, fitness progression, and race experience, while maintaining the positive and team-oriented culture that defines our cycling programs. Athletes will participate in challenging trail rides, structured workouts, and technical skill sessions designed to improve both their performance and confidence on the bike.
Skills and Athlete Development
At this level, athletes work toward refining their technical abilities, race tactics, and physical preparation. Coaches help athletes better understand training principles, pacing strategies, and how to manage energy and effort during races and longer training rides.
Key areas of focus include:
- Advanced bike handling and technical trail skills
- Race tactics and pacing strategies
- Climbing efficiency and descending technique
- Structured interval and endurance training
- Equipment knowledge and basic bike maintenance
Athletes begin to take more ownership of their development while learning how to train and compete effectively over the course of a season.
Racing Opportunities
Competition becomes a central part of the Devo experience, with athletes participating in a variety of local, regional, and national events throughout the season. A key focus of the program is participation in the Vail Recreation District Town Race Series, which provides consistent racing opportunities close to home and allows athletes to develop race confidence in a familiar environment.
Athletes also compete in events within the Colorado High School Cycling League, one of the most competitive high school mountain bike leagues in the country. These races bring together riders from across the state and provide an exciting team-based competition format.
In addition to local and state racing, athletes may also pursue regional and national-level mountain bike events depending on their goals and commitment level. Coaches work with athletes to help them prepare for these opportunities while maintaining a healthy balance between training, racing, and school.
Training and Athlete Support
For motivated athletes seeking additional structure, individualized training plans may be developed through TrainingPeaks, allowing athletes and coaches to collaborate on training goals, track progress, and prepare for key events throughout the season.
These training plans help athletes build a deeper understanding of endurance training, recovery, and performance preparation.