While sports like hockey run deep in the Pembina Valley, off-road cycling is gaining traction among local youth.

Local cycling enthusiast Peter Loewen recently introduced a hands-on mountain biking program called Kids of Mud, to the area.

"Kids of Mud is sanctioned by the Manitoba Cycling Association so there are quite a few clubs in the province," Loewen said. "Nothing has been down here so I thought it is a good opportunity to introduce kids to cycling at a young age."

Once weekly the kids and coaches would meet at Lake Minnewasta to train in three ability levels, depending on the capabilities of the participant.

Kids were taught proper braking techniques, when to stand up on their peddles, when to upshift or downshift, along with other fundamental lessons associated with mountain biking. The program allowed children to challenge their skills and fitness while also training to take part in bike races.

Loewen noted that some kids might not enjoy participating in team sports, so an individual sport like off-road cycling gives them another avenue to be active.

Though it was only the first year the program had taken place in the area, 30 kids signed up for the six week cycling program, showing great enthusiasm for the sport.

The program wrapped up on Wednesday, and Loewen is pleased with how successful the season was, adding that the six weeks flew by.

As a result, Loewen is considering extending the program by a couple weeks next year. Anyone interested in the 2018 season can register online.