FAQs
We're the San Rafael Bike Dawgs, the co-ed mountain biking team for San Rafael High School. If you’re into hitting the trails, making new friends, and pushing yourself (without taking it too seriously), we’re your people. Whether you're a seasoned rider or totally new to mountain biking, there’s a place for you here.
What level of experience do I need?
We welcome all students with basic to advanced mountain biking skills to develop their passion for the sport. Athletes should know how to ride a bike, shift gears, and ride on dirt - and commit to practices and events. Our NICA certified coaches group riders by skill level, so no need to feel intimidated if you are new.
What does the season calendar look like?
November to February - One team ride / training session each Saturday morning, 2 to 3 hours. Tuesday after school rides are added in March.
February to May - Races start, with an additional weekday team ride in-between race weekends after the clocks change. For races, an overnight stay may be required.
What are the races about?
The length of the race varies depending on the rider's grade and ability. The goal is to encourage participation, foster a sense of community, and help students develop valuable life skills like discipline, resilience, and teamwork. The better you do, the higher you’ll be placed in the next race. It’s all about pushing yourself and improving each time you ride!
In the 2025 season, there were four races, two to three weeks apart starting in February and ending in May with a final championship race for the riders who qualified. Locations have included Fort Ord (Salinas), Exchequer (La Grange, past Modesto), Stafford lake (Novato), Granite Bay (Loomis / Folsom Lake) and Six Sigma (Lake County).
How do I join?
Information about how to sign up can be found on our Sign Up page. Those who join will be invited to a Season Kick Off Party that includes parents, student riders, coaches and other volunteers. There, riders can meet the team, ask questions, and turn in any outstanding paperwork and team dues. To join a mailing list ahead of time and receive the invitation, contact us at bikedawgsmanager@gmail.com.
Financial Commitment
Mountain Biking is considered a Club Sport, not fully sponsored by the school. While riders are typically fully funded by their parents and team fundraising, there are scholarships available at both the team and league level. Email us at bikedawgsmanager@gmail.com with sponsorship questions.
Parent Participation
All training is off school grounds. Riders and their bikes need to be able to get to practices. This usually involves some parent commitment and carpooling, especially before the kids can drive themselves.
On race weekends we are “All Hands On Deck” with many volunteer opportunities for parents, friends and even siblings. Parent participation is expected and necessary!