The first week of the 37th annual ‘Teach Them Young’ Cycling Programme which commenced on Monday in the National Park attracted in excess of 30 riders.
Despite the recent inclement weather, 34 young cyclists convened at the venue to learn how to improve their riding skills as well as the intricacies of cycle racing.
The two-hour, five-days-per week programme which begins at 9:00hrs will conclude on August 30.
During an interview on the first week of activities yesterday, the 2011 Coach-of-the-Year, Hassan Mohamed intimated that he is happy to share his knowledge with the young cyclists who will be under his watchful eyes for the next eight weeks.
So what was imparted to the riders in the first week?
“The important thing for this week was to make sure that their bikes were set properly” Mohamed said. “Some of their saddles and handles were too high, they were taught about bike control, how to pedal their cycles, because some of them riding with their ankles out so I tried to show them the basics this week but that would not be overcome in a week or two, it will take some time because they are accustomed riding with their technique”.
Mohamed revealed that the first week’s turnout was “great” and he expects to see new faces in the coming weeks.
“The turn out this week was very great, we had 34 young riders with one of them as young as five, the response was so good and was very encouraging and I think it will be better next week because some schools will be closing this week, so I am hoping next week we will have even more riders“.
The legendary coach stated that as the activity progresses he will further impart his knowledge to the potential cycling champions.
“As the programme goes on I will teach them things like how to control a bike, how to be seated on the bike, when you are stopping how to look around before turning, how to focus on wheels to prevent spills and other injuries.”
Mohamed added that several races are planned to gauge the improvements of the participants, the first of which will pedal off today at the National Park.
“We have races for them during the course of the month, tomorrow is the first activity and that will attract more participants to join so I’m optimistic about this year’s programme.
The National Cycling Coach also thanked the Ministry of Sport and the National Sports Commission for sponsoring the cycling nursery that has produced numerous outstanding cyclists.
“I am happy that the Director of Sport Neil Kumar has been very supportive along with the Ministry of Sport all through the years in continuing this programme and I hope I can continue giving results not only to the ministry but to the public and the cyclists who are participating in the programme.”
