Late in 2009 a thread showed up on MTBR, asking “who is representing mountain biking in Hamilton?” Good question. To the best of everyone’s knowledge no one was, at least in a focused organized fashion. The kind of representation that you need if you’re going to become a stakeholder in land access discussions, not be relegated to a mere “interested group.”

On January 6th a group of about 20 Hamilton mountain bikers, and me, got together upstairs at The Coach and Lantern in Ancaster. Some were local riders who frequent MTBR, some where locals who organize rides via email, some were from the Hamilton Cycling Club (HCC). I was just there to pledge IMBA support and to meet some Hamilton mountain bikers. A number of options were discussed including forming a new MTB specific club; joining HCC as part of its MTB initiatives; one person spoke about some of the research and background preparation he’s been doing in this area. The discussion kept coming back to a few key issues. What everyone in the room was concerned with was:

  1. Advocacy, specifically for mountain biking,
  2. Trail Access, specifically legitimizing many of the currently illegal trails,
  3. Effort required to get a club going, and then maintaining it.

When I asked the question “Who is willing to step up and take a leadership roll?” a number of people raised their hands. An excellent sign. Overall I think the meeting was a success and a huge step forward. I think most everyone in attendance thought so as well. Here’s the summary of the meeting.

But wait it gets better.

The HCC invited those brave folks who raised their hands to come to their next executive meeting. Two where able to make it, and reported that the HCC executive voted to:

  1. Create two board positions dedicated to mountain biking,
  2. Affiliate with IMBA.

As garage monster reports:

Both were PASSED UNANIMOUSLY with no hesitation! To say that the executive was eager to have us would be a gross understatement. Furthermore, they will amend the club’s constitution at the next AGM to include specific verbiage with regards to mountain biking.

Suffice to say the general feeling all around is very upbeat and positive. So if you live or ride in Hamilton and have been concerned about who is representing mountain biking there, worry no further. The combination of passionate local riders, and a well established and respectable club is a very good step (or 2, or 10) in the right direction. Now it all depends on you, the Hamilton rider, to lend your support. For the trails’ sake join the HCC today.