A GROUP of young riders proudly represented Mansfield Mount Buller Cycling Club (MMBCC) this spring at the Joyride Rookie Cup – a youth downhill mountain bike series held across four events.

Serving as a pathway into the Vic DH series, this event has become one of the most popular races in Australia, attracting talent from across the country.

Mansfield riders Cooper Hoebergen, Keegan and Spencer Carman, Ewan Rogan, and Sienna Vivash competed in the series, with the final race held last week at Mt Major in Dookie.

The competition wasn't without its challenges, as Saturday's practice saw bikes caked in mud so thick that the wheels would no longer spin.

Youth pit crews lined the track, scraping mud from racers’ wheels as they pushed through the final sprint.

Thankfully, Sunday brought perfect conditions for race day.

Sienna Vivash had an exceptional series, bringing home the trophy for the overall U11 Girls category after placing first in all four races with impressive times.

All the Mansfield riders delivered clean runs, aside from a gust of wind affecting Keegan’s flight path on the final jumps, causing him to crash-land outside the bunting.

It was a fantastic series and an incredible experience for young riders aged 9 to 16 interested in trying downhill racing.