08/24/2026
🦫 BDB Behind the Scenes: Why did we add the 5-Mile Advanced Youth Race?
This one is pretty simple.
Some of our little rippers have been racing the Beaver Dash Bash since day one. Over the years, they've gotten bigger, stronger, and faster. Many of them now show up for our Monday night rides and other group rides throughout the year.
We realized they had outgrown the 1- and 2-mile kids races, but many weren't quite ready to jump into the full 11-mile race.
So we asked ourselves, "How do we keep challenging these young riders?"
The answer was the new 5-Mile Advanced Youth Race, with a suggested age range of 10-14.
It gives those riders a chance to take the next step while still keeping the 1- and 2-mile races available for kids who are just getting started or aren't ready for a longer challenge yet.
The 10-14 age range is only a guideline. We know kids develop and ride at different levels, so parents should use their best judgment based on their child's experience and ability.
Does it add more logistics for our volunteers? Absolutely.
But one of Crank 4 a Cause's core missions is to get kids outside, active, and away from screens. If adding another race helps inspire the next generation of riders and gives them a new goal to work toward, then we think it's worth the extra effort.
Who knows... today's 5-mile rider might be tomorrow's Elite racer. 🚵
