Frequently Asked Questions

Check out our FAQ below, or contact us.

FAQ

Who can join the Pony Shop Chicago Juniors Cycling Club?
Any child aged 8-17 (by Dec. 31 of the current year) interested in racing. Other ages may join practices or attend races but can’t race on the team per se. (Parents are also welcome to participate/ride at any practice, but please leave coaching to the coaches.)
Why should my child join the Pony Shop Chicago Juniors Cycling Club?
The Pony Shop Chicago Juniors Cycling Club offers young athletes the opportunity to develop athletic and social skills. The team provides opportunities for training and developing bike riding and racing skills and experience. As the largest juniors team in the Chicago area, the team cultivates a supportive community for junior riders and their parents and caregivers. The coaches, who have years of experience leading the team, focus on teamwork, fun, and cultivating a lifelong love of cycling for every rider.
Who is in charge of the team?
Check out our coaches page to learn more about Coach Rory, Coach Paul, Coach Dave, and Coach Don. The team is led by the CJCC board. The coaches and board are also supported by parents of current team members and members of the Pony Shop Elite team.
What equipment will my child need to join the team?
Riders will need a working bicycle and helmet. The bicycle should have clearance for mud tires. Single speed bikes and mountain bikes may be used but ideally riders should have a cyclocross bike. Cleated shoes and pedals are not mandatory but will increase your speed and bike handling. Visit the Pony Shop to get all your equipment questions answered!
How much does it cost to join the team?
All team members are expected to make a contribution to offset the costs of running the team. Team dues go to providing race day support (tents, equipment, snacks, etc.) and other team expenses.

The cost is scalable depending on how many children from your family are on the team:
 - One child participating: $300 per year
 - Two children participating: $450 per year
 - Three children participating: $600 per year

Visit the team guide for more details. 
What is expected of riders on the team?
We expect riders to participate in team trainings and races as they are able. The team is for the riders' fun and benefit and participate when and where you can. We do expect riders to wear our team clothing in cyclocross races, and to behave in a way that would never embarrass our history or our sponsors.

Our team guide has more details about 
What is expected of parents/caregivers of children on the team?
Parents and Caregivers: please show up on time, equipment ready, and be respectful of both coaches and Pony Shop team mechanics and other volunteers. Anyone is also welcome to join our practices and help make working out more fun, help set up and clean up, pitch in where needed.
What types of riding and racing can my child participate in as a member of the team?
We support junior riders in cyclocross, track, road, and gravel racing. For more information, go to our Programs page.