The club aims to introduce young people to cycling as a healthy activity, and practical mode of transport and a sport that will last for life. We’ve brought together some pictures of what goes on in the various aspects of this mission.
Signing on – Though we’re much more than just a racing club, we start the morning with the traditional race discipline of signing on and getting your number. This means we know who is involved in the activities, identifies groups as being formally organised, and lets the riders and parents get used to fumbling with safety pins!
Skills development – Team Darenth welcomes young riders with all levels of ability. Our British Cycling qualified coaches work with the riders to assess their levels of skill, control and fitness, and make sure the activities they engage in are fun and challenging. In addition to the weekly skills activities, the club runs a skills achievement scheme where riders can demonstrate their learning and earn different levels of awards, Basic skills such as steering, braking and bike control are mixed with more advanced “tricks” through team and individual games, including the famous “Ray-man’s Limbo” and “Box”.
Out and About – As our riders' skills develop they can join in one of our "off site" rides. Coaches and approved adult riders will lead groups out and about in the neighbourhood.
Rides involve road and off-road terrain, and might include the woodland trails of Joydens Wood, scaling the sides of Canada Heights and Farningham Woods, or journeying further into Kent. Riders will need to bring along a drink, appropriate clothing for the weather, and a spare inner tube!
Family Friendly - It isn't just about young riders and hard rides. Team Darenth is supported and run by a large body of adults, many of whom have offspring riding with the club.
We like to involve as many parents and carers as we can, and run a number of trips away for socialising and riding further afield. This a great opportunity for the adults to get to know each other, see what the riders get up to and even join in.
Team Darenth is based in Wilmington Enterprise College, east of Bexley and south of Dartford.
To get directions click on the map below.
