The Exeter Wheelers Youth Academy is being relaunched as part of the club’s commitment to developing the next generation of cyclists in Exeter and the surrounding area.
Our aim is to provide a fun, safe and welcoming environment where young riders can develop their cycling skills, build confidence, make friends and discover the many opportunities available within cycling, whether that’s riding for enjoyment, learning new skills or taking part in competition.
Building the Future
One of the club’s main goals this year is to reactivate and grow our Youth Academy.
To support this, four club members have successfully completed British Cycling coaching qualifications, and Exeter Wheelers has been awarded Focus Go-Ride Club status by British Cycling. We have also secured funding through a British Cycling grant to help develop and deliver our youth programme.
We are currently finalising our coaching plan and identifying suitable venues for regular coaching sessions. Our goal is to create a sustainable programme that provides high-quality coaching and development opportunities for young riders throughout the year.
Haldon Forest Youth Rides
While preparations for the full coaching programme continue, we will be launching introductory youth rides at Haldon Forest.
When: Wednesdays, 18:30–20:00
Location: Haldon Forest
Frequency: Weekly or fortnightly (to be confirmed based on demand and volunteer availability)
These rides are designed to give young riders and their families an opportunity to experience the club, meet our coaches and volunteers, and learn more about the Youth Academy.
Participation will be free, but advance registration will be required for every ride. This allows us to manage numbers appropriately and maintain a safe ratio of coaches and volunteers to young riders.
New families are very welcome to attend these introductory sessions. Riders who wish to participate regularly are encouraged to become members of Exeter Wheelers and join our growing cycling community.
Racing and Events
The Youth Academy is not only for aspiring racers. Our primary focus is helping young people enjoy cycling and develop their skills at their own pace.
However, several of our young riders already take part in regional cycling events, and we are keen to support any riders who would like to explore competitive cycling.
There are excellent youth event series across a variety of disciplines, including:
- Mountain Bike (MTB)
- Cyclocross
- Road Cycling
Although these are official races, they are known for being friendly, supportive and inclusive, welcoming riders of all abilities and experience levels.
Join Exeter Wheelers
Families who join Exeter Wheelers gain access to the club’s wider cycling community, including our Youth Academy communications and WhatsApp community. This provides opportunities to connect with other parents, organise rides, receive updates on races and events, and stay informed about Youth Academy activities.
To find out more about club membership, please visit:
https://www.exeterwheelers.co.uk/join-the-club/
Register Your Interest
If you would like to receive updates about the Youth Academy, upcoming rides or future coaching sessions, please get in touch with us. We’d be delighted to hear from you and keep you informed as the programme develops.