The Martinsville-Henry County YMCA is expanding its fitness initiatives with a new youth cross-country bike race, offering middle and high school students an opportunity to compete locally and develop an interest in cycling. The event, which will be part of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), aims to introduce young riders to the sport in a welcoming and accessible setting.
YMCA Executive Director Brad Kinkema said the idea for a local interscholastic bike team has been in development for some time. The project gained momentum when Hunter Doss, a cycling tournament competitor from Carlisle School, chose to organize a race for his required Carlisle Project. Kinkema worked with Doss’s father to turn the idea into reality.
“This is very low-key. We are not looking for hundreds of people,” Kinkema said. “It’s just to introduce bike racing to locals, high school and middle school kids, to build a program.”
Currently, most cycling races are held in northern Virginia, requiring competitors to travel several hours to participate. By bringing the event to Martinsville-Henry County, organizers hope to make the sport more accessible for local youth. A limited number of loaner bikes will be available for participants who do not own a bike.
The first race will be held on March 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Monogram Foods Smith River Sports Complex at 1000 Irisburg Road, Axton. The course, a cross-country trail, is designed to be beginner-friendly, allowing new riders to gain confidence and experience without requiring advanced skills.
The YMCA envisions this event as the foundation for a larger regional youth cycling team, which could include competitors from Martinsville, Henry County, Patrick County, and possibly Franklin County.
“We have some beautiful counties here. So, there’s a place to do bike races here,” Kinkema said, adding that the goal is to compete in the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) and develop a structured racing program for young athletes.
While the new program focuses on youth riders, adult cycling groups are already active in the community. Kinkema noted that several established groups are competing in regional events, and the YMCA operates a bike barn, allowing residents to borrow bicycles for use on the Dick & Willie Passage Trail.
The YMCA has extensive experience hosting races, and organizing multiple foot races each year as part of the Martinsville Mile series. The addition of a cycling race is expected to expand local fitness opportunities and encourage more youth participation in competitive sports.
