Introduction to Mountain Biking in Kingston, ON

Soldier On, under the generous instruction of MTB Kingston, will be hosting an Introduction to Mountain Biking event in Kingston, ON on May 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. This activity will bring together both serving and retired ill/injured CAF members, allowing participants to connect through peer support and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.

This activity will introduce local Soldier On Members within the local Kingston region to the skills and enjoyment of Mountain Bike trail riding while enhancing their mental, social and physical well-being. Hosted at the MTB Kingston facility, colloquially known as The Farm, participants will be provided with lessons to introduce or improve their cycling skills. The day will conclude in a group ride.

Instruction and mentoring will be provided by Alain Bilodeau of MTB Kingston while MTB Kingston has offered use of their facility.

Participants should bring their own mountain bike and helmet if they already own them. Rental mountain bike and helmet will be provided to members that do not have them. We recommend that you bring protective eyewear and gloves. Sturdy footwear is required so no sandals or flip flops are permitted.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 10.

Minimum eligibility criteria
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the Kingston, Trenton ON region who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Serving Members
Medical clearance may be required by your chain of command.

Mental & Physical Requirements

• Participants must be able to tolerate six hours of moderate-paced activities.
  • Applicants must have a limited requirement to rest throughout the event.
  • Participants must be capable of riding, standing, controlling, and pedalling a mountain bike over uneven terrain.
  • The activity will involve some bouncing and jarring.
  • Participants will be required to wear a bicycle helmet.
• Participants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.
• Participants must cover all costs of meals, accommodations, and travel throughout the entirety of this event.