Connecting people to the outdoors through experiences that grow community.
Focused on Cross Country riding & Racing for Ages 11-18
Competitive Cycling Options
Registration for 2026 Cross Country Teams will open on March 3rd, 2026 at 9am.
The goals of the Cross Country (XC) MTB Teams are to inspire and support youth in leading healthy, active lives through the friendship, teamwork, and enjoyment that cycling fosters. We are committed to both team and individual growth through purposeful training and racing, while demonstrating strong character on and off the bike. Through our actions and attitudes, we strive to represent the sport of cycling, the Loppet, and our sponsors with pride and integrity.
Practices are thoughtfully structured to accommodate all ability levels, ensuring each athlete is appropriately challenged based on their goals, skill level, and rate of development. Our focus is on building fundamental and sport-specific skills while preparing athletes for competition—always keeping fun and safety at the center of the training experience.
Check out the junior off-season training programs here.
DEVO
DEVO Team
Ages 11-14
The LCW Devo Team is designed for younger riders who are excited to build skills and confidence on the bike. Many athletes come from our Trail Kids program or are middle school riders participating in the Minnesota Cycling Association (MCA). The Devo Team serves as the entry point for LCW XC juniors, providing a strong foundation for future growth in the sport.
Session 1
Dates: 4/14/2026 – 5/28/2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m
Session 2
Dates: 6/2/2026 – 7/9/2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Comp Team
Ages 12-18
The Comp Team is for athletes who have been in the program for at least a year, or have equivalent experience, and are ready to focus more intentionally on training and racing. These riders often compete for their school in the MCA League, participate in the MN MTB Series, and take part in other regional events. Wirth on Wednesday (WoW) races are included while they are in session.
Many Comp Team members participate in another sport during the off-season. The team will practice alongside Performance Team members a couple of days each week, providing opportunities for growth and development within a more competitive training environment.
Session 1
Dates: 4/13/2026(no practice on Memorial day) – 7/9/2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Session 2
Dates: 7/28/2026 – 10/22/2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Registration for 2026 LCW Comp Team will open on March 3rd, 2026 at 9am
COMP
PERFORMANCE
Performance Team
Ages 14-18
The Performance Team is designed for riders who want to compete in USAC sanctioned races as well as local events. This team is for athletes committed to endurance training and ready to take their racing and overall performance to the next level.
Each Performance Team member works closely with a dedicated coach who provides training plans tailored to their specific goals. As part of the team, athletes are fully committed to year-round training and racing.
If you are interested in joining the Performance Team please complete this application.
Session 1
Dates: 4/13/2026 – 7/9/2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. (no practice Memorial Day)
Session 2
Dates: 7/28/2026 – 10/22/2026
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Registration for 2026 LCW Performance Team will open on March 3rd, 2026 at 9am
Financial Assistance Information
Financial Assistance
The Loppet provides financial assistance for those in need. To apply, please fill out this Financial Assistance form. Our staff will be in touch with you with next steps once your application has been submitted. *Limitations apply, please see the application form for rules and restrictions. In most instances there will be a $500 financial assistance cap per person/per year.
Refund Policy
The Loppet will issue a full refund of the program fee minus the original processing fee up until 4 weeks before the program starts. Between 4 and 3 weeks from the program start date, a 50% refund will be issued. There are no refunds for any cancellations within less than 3 weeks of the start of a program.
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact lcw@loppet.org.
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