While other NMU teams are opening up the spring athletic season in courts and fields, the NMU club cycling team has been practicing on the road as they prepare for their own season.

The cycling club at NMU is a competitive cycling team that allows students to road bike race. The team races against in the Midwest Collegiate Cycling Conference (MCCC).

Cycling coach Ryan Craig said the team has been training at the PEIF in preparation for warmer weather.

“We are getting a late start to our season due to the extended weather we have been having this year,” Craig said. “We have been training every Friday in the PEIF’s Fitness Studio, and everyone of us is ready to ride outside.”

Craig said racing usually begins in late February and wraps up with an appearance at Regionals in Madison, Wisc. The team is preparing for their first race of the season this weekend.

“Most races are located down in Indiana and Illinois so it is hard for us to get down there on our own funding,” Craig said. “We are way behind the curve as far as competing goes, so to show up and not finish last would be huge.”

While the team has not yet competed in events so far this season, Craig said the group is asking for outside help.

“We need funding,” Craig said. “We are a very dedicated group of riders and are very motivated to race. The only thing we need help with this season is transportation to and from races.”

The team is hitting the road on Saturday, April 6 to race in East Lansing, Mich.

“If there are any local businesses interested in sponsoring our efforts this season or next season, contact 906-399-0475,” Craig said. “We could also always use some more students getting involved, so if you have a road-specific bike come join club cycling.”