Hurricane, West Virginia · Monday, August 3, 2026
The NICA Discovery- Hurricane, WV- New Friends (level1) is a cycling event held on Monday, August 3, 2026. It is located at 3543 Teays Valley Road in Hurricane, West Virginia.
Race #9 of 9, Meeks Mountain Hoe-Down, in the West Virginia Mountain Bike Association (WVMBA) Cross Country Mountain Bike Series is here, and it's set to be an unforgettable showdown! The Meeks Mountain Hoe-Down is not just a race; it’s a celebration of dedication and teamwork, as these incredible trails were crafted by 450 volunteers to create a premier racing venue. Known for its exceptional design, Meeks Mountain trials attracts elite athletes and promises an exhilarating experience for all participants. Don’t miss your chance to race on these renowned trails!
The WVMBA series is recognized as one of the oldest mountain bike racing series in the nation, renowned for its challenging courses and the vibrant community of riders it attracts. Join us in celebrating the spirit of mountain biking and enhancing our trails by becoming a WVMBA member at: WVMBA Membership 2026, Membership not only supports the promotion and development of mountain biking in the state but also provides benefits such as discounts on race entries.
All races start at 12 noon or shortly after, (unless otherwise posted). All participants must attend the pre-race meeting.
Race Categories:
Each WVMBA Series Race offers participants the opportunity to choose from three categories when selecting their race class. Your choice should be based on a combination of fitness level, skill, and the time you anticipate needing to complete the course.
Pro/Cat 1: Distances range from 18 to 24 miles. This category is designed for experienced riders who are prepared for a challenging course.
Cat 2: Distances range from 12 to 18 miles. This category is suitable for intermediate riders, offering a balanced challenge.
Cat 3/Beginner: Distances range from 5 to 12 miles. This category is perfect for those new to racing or looking for a less intense experience.
Licenses/Membership:
WVMBA is pleased to announce that no USA Cycling license will be required this season. We encourage you to consider becoming a WVMBA member, as your support helps ensure the organization’s long-term future.
Annual members will receive a $5 discount code for each race entry. If you are not a member, the full cost of race entries will be included in your event registration.
WVMBA memberships can be purchased here: WVMBA Membership 2026.
Please note: You are encouraged to obtain an Annual WVMBA membership before registering for any race, as we cannot provide refunds for memberships purchased after registration.
WVMBA Category pricing:
All races will have a consistent price point to maximize the prize purse and simplify race-day registration. Cat 1 Juniors will have full payout opportunities.
All Cat 1 race entrees are $50 (including Juniors) (+online reg fees)
Cat 2 and Cat 3 for all adult categories are $50, Monday before race $60. (+online reg fees)
Cat 2 and Cat 3 for all Junior classes are $30, Monday before race $40. (+online reg fees)
WVMBA Annual Members will be $25 and $45, Monday before the race, $35 and $55.
All race entrees will increase $10 Sunday at midnight on the week before your event. Online registration will end on Friday before your event.
Starting Monday July 13th, registration fees for all racers will increase by $10. Registration will close at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17th, to allow time to submit the final roster to our timing company, Miles of Smiles.
Same-day, on-site registration is available (cash or check only). Fees are $60 for adults and $40 for Junior Categories.
Prizes:
Each category in the WVMBA Series is distance-based and offers unique prize opportunities:
Cat 1/Pro Categories: Competitors in this category will race for cash prizes awarded to the top three positions across all five subcategories. Notably, there is equal pay for both the men's open and women's open divisions, ensuring fairness and recognition for all athletes.
Cat 2, Cat 3, E-Bikes: Participants in these categories will compete for a prize table or special awards for the top three finishers in each subcategory. The specific prizes will be determined at the promoter's discretion.
The Award Ceremony for The Meeks Mountain MTB Hoedown (MMH),will take place after all racers have been accounted for on the course and will take place at the Bowl trail head at the Main Shelter. Since this is the last race, overall Series awards for Cat 1 and Cat 2 will happen preceding the MMH race day awards.
Rules:
Please review the updated WVMBA Racing Rules and Regulations available on our website. This comprehensive guide outlines all the necessary information for participating in our series.
Additionally, we are excited to offer E-Bike options for Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes. You can find the specific rules for E-Bike participation in the same section on our website. Explore the details today to ensure you’re fully prepared for the race!
Course Information:
This race promises to be a fast-paced thrill ride, thanks to the incredible hand-cut trail network created by dedicated volunteers. Expect high-speed sections, punchy climbs, and uniquely named trails that add character and challenge to your ride. Prepare for a blast on the trails! Once the final course is finalized for the 2026 season it can be found here: Course 2026
Directions to the Course:
MMTA Trails is located in Hurricane, WV,at 3511 WV-34, Hurricane, WV 25526 with the main trail head entrance located near the back side of Hurricane City Park. Participants are encouraged to use the parking lot at the park and ride your bike to the back Bowl Trail head. Please be careful at the railroad crossing as trains enter this area at high speeds. A general trail map can be found here: Interactive trail map.
We are so excited for your child to participate in NICA Discovery FUNdamentals!
All NICA Discovery adult leaders are background checked and hold a coaching license from NICA. There will always be at least 2 leaders who have current first aid training.
“FUNdamentals” is for kids who have completed NICA Discovery New Friends or who have had some level of experience mountain biking. This NICA Discovery program level focuses on development and fluency of fundamental skills needed for safe and fun trail riding, group cooperation, riding together, and building stamina for spending more time on the bike.
Participants must be 7 years of age by program start date and able to ride a bike without training wheels and have some experience riding with a group before joining this level. If you are unsure that this level is appropriate for your child, please reach out to Julie Samples, site director [email protected]
NICA Discovery Hurricane, WV FUNdamentals (level 2) meets Tuesdays at 5:30 pm at Hurricane City Park
September 8
September 15
September 22
September 29
October 6
October 13
Required Equipment
Helmet - Less than 5 years old that fits your child’s head well without moving around while they ride.
Footwear - Closed-toe (non-Croc like) shoes that fastened by laces, straps or buckles
Bike - Bike with knobby tires, gears, and two hand brakes. Bike tires should be no smaller than 20 inches.
Bike repair items - A replacement tube that fits your child’s tire. (dropped off at day one check in and returned at close of program if they are un-used.
Snug fitting small backpack - Kids need to be able to carry water and snacks with them at all times.
Snacks/Hydration - Kids should always bring a snack and hydration with them to Discovery.
Examples could include a granola bar, fruit snacks, or something that can easily be stored in a pocket or pack.
Hydration should consist of non caffeinated sports drinks or just good ole water!
Recommended Equipment
Gloves - full-finger gloves to protect hands from abrasions in the case of a fall
Eye protection - generic sports glasses to protect from dust and debris (and bugs) kicked up while riding
Windbreaker / light rain jacket - weather conditions change throughout the season, your child should be prepared to ride in the conditions that are present on the day. Sessions will be altered or canceled if the weather conditions are unsafe.
Athletic /Cycling shorts - Loose fitting athletic shorts or pants. Cycling specific shorts are not required but some kids may be more comfortable.
What to Expect
Each session is broken down into 3 sections.
Opener activities and objective/expectation setting
Skills activities and Games
Wrap up and Reflection
There will be a break mid-session for snacking/hydrating and general check in.
Each session builds on skills learned in the previous session. To get the MOST out of NICA Discovery make sure your child can attend every session!
In FUNdamentals the sessions consist of riding and playing in a park-like setting with options to ride beginner friendly trails.
Kids should come ready to learn, play, ride and explore!
Backpack examples
A small pack that fits snugly and is just big enough to carry a water bottle and snacks, and maybe a small found treasure or two is great.
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Helmet examples
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Bike examples
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Guide to Kids' Bike Sizing
How to determine if the bike is the correct size
Standover:
While straddling the bike with feet flat on the ground, the rider should have about 2 inches of clearance between the top tube and their inseam.
Bike Wheel
Child Height (in.)
Approx. Age
Inseam (inside leg length)
20-inch
42-52
7-10
21-25
24-inch
50-58
8-12
24-28
26-inch
56+
10+
26+