Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Galbraith Gravity Racing (GGR)?

Galbraith Gravity Racing (GGR) is a volunteer-run youth downhill and enduro mountain bike team based in Bellingham, Washington. We serve riders ages 5–18 and focus on FUN, safety, progression, and community through a team-based, league-style model.

Is GGR a drop-off program?

Yes — parents do drop their kids off for practices and events.

However, GGR is not a fee-for-service coaching business or a private lesson program. We operate as a volunteer-run team and youth league, not a customer–vendor relationship.

Families are expected to support the program, respect coaching decisions, and contribute to a positive team culture. GGR works best when families see themselves as part of the team, not customers of a service.

If you are looking for a highly customized, pay-to-optimize experience, a private coaching program may be a better fit.

What ages does GGR support?

GGR supports youth riders ages 5–18, organized by race age into the following groups:

• U8

• U11

• U13

• U15

• U17

• U19

Adult and Pro coaches provide leadership and oversight across all groups.

What is race age?

Race age is the age an athlete will turn at any point during the calendar year of the race season.

Athletes compete in that age category for the entire season, even if they have a birthday mid-season.

Example:
If a rider is 12 at the start of the season but turns 13 later that year, their race age is 13 and they compete in the U13category.

How are practice groups determined?

While race age determines competition category, practice group placement at GGR uses an athlete development model (ADM).

Coaches consider:

• Race age

• Riding and racing experience

• Technical skill level

• Emotional maturity and decision-making

This allows athletes to be placed where they can ride safely, learn effectively, be appropriately challenged, and contribute positively to the group.

Group placement decisions are made collaboratively by the coaching team and may evolve over time as athletes develop.

Why isn’t my rider always placed with faster riders?

Progression isn’t just about speed.

Riders who are always chasing faster athletes often spend more time surviving than learning. Appropriate placement allows riders to build decision-making skills, confidence, leadership, and responsibility — all essential for long-term development.

This approach may feel counter-intuitive, but it consistently produces stronger athletes and a healthier team culture.

What days do we train?

Training days are consistent and organized by age group:

• U15 / U17 / U19 train on Mondays and Wednesdays

• U8 / U11 / U13 train on Tuesdays and Thursdays

Schedules are communicated clearly at the start of the season. Occasional adjustments may occur due to weather, daylight, or trail access.

When do we race?

GGR athletes typically race on most Saturdays during the season.

This includes:

• Races in the Galbraith Grassroots Racing Series, which GGR hosts

• Regional events when appropriate

On weekends with a NW Cup or other regional race, athletes may race there instead of a local series event.

Is GGR more like a league (practice + race)?

Yes.
GGR operates much like a youth sports league.

The season follows a consistent rhythm:

• Weekday practices

• Weekend races, primarily on Saturdays

• Practices designed to prepare riders for the terrain and skills they will encounter in competition

Because GGR hosts the Galbraith Grassroots Racing Series, athletes often practice on terrain similar to what they will race.

Where do we train and ride?

GGR primarily trains on Galbraith Mountain.
Additional locations may be used for clinics, special sessions, or advanced training when appropriate.

What is GGR South?

GGR South is our satellite team based on Bainbridge Island and is part of the WSCL Gear Grinders.

GGR South has a dedicated group of coaches and athletes who are part of Galbraith Gravity Racing and represent GGR in the South and West Sound. This group trains locally and supports racing in their region while operating under the same values, coaching philosophy, and athlete development model as GGR.

If you’re interested in GGR South or want more information about the program in the West Sound, please reach out.

Does my rider need race experience to join?

No prior race experience is required.

Riders should be comfortable riding independently on intermediate (blue-level) terrain appropriate for their age group. Racing is introduced progressively with coaching support.

How competitive is GGR?

GGR supports a wide range of goals — from first-time racers to highly motivated competitors.

We value effort, teamwork, and sportsmanship over results alone. Performance matters, but never at the expense of safety, respect, or enjoyment of the sport.

What about gender — do girls and boys ride together?

Yes.
GGR is co-ed. Riders are grouped by race age, not gender, for both training and racing.

We are committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive environment for all athletes.

Can Canadian riders be part of GGR?

Yes — absolutely.

We have several GGR members from Canada, and riders from both sides of the border have long been part of the Galbraith riding community. GGR and Canadian riders are a natural fit.

Canadian athletes are welcome to train, race, and participate fully in the program. Race licensing and registration requirements may vary by event, and we’re happy to help families navigate those details.

What is the role of youth coaches and teen leaders?

Mentorship is a core part of GGR.

Older athletes and teen coaches support younger riders, building leadership skills while reinforcing positive team culture. Adult coaches mentor youth leaders, creating a clear pathway from athlete to mentor to coach.

What is expected of parents and guardians?

GGR is volunteer-run, and family involvement is essential.

Depending on age group and event, parents may assist with:

• Shuttling riders and bikes

• Practice and race-day support

• Timing, course marshaling, and logistics

• Team-hosted race events

No mountain bike experience is required — just a willingness to support the team environment.

What equipment is required?

Equipment requirements vary by age group and discipline but generally include:

• A well-maintained mountain bike suitable for downhill/enduro riding

• A full-face helmet for most gravity riding

• Protective gear appropriate for the rider and terrain

Specific requirements are shared during onboarding.

How does GGR prioritize safety?

Safety is central to everything we do.

Coaches emphasize appropriate terrain selection, progressive skill development, and sound decision-making. All athletes and families are expected to follow team guidelines and the Code of Conduct.

What happens if there are questions about placement or progression?

We encourage respectful, direct communication.

If families have questions, we ask that they speak with coaches so expectations remain aligned and concerns can be addressed constructively.

GGR may not be the right fit if you are looking for:

• One-on-one private coaching

• A highly customized, consumer-style experience

• A results-only or win-at-all-costs environment

We aim to be transparent so families can decide if the program aligns with their values.