Abby Shivers is a Mountain Biking Shred Girl IRL

If you're a young mountain biker (or a girl who wants to try MTB!) and haven't heard about the National Interscholastic Cycling Association — NICA — yet, then you're missing a huge resource! They have an awesome program for young riders, with access to great coaches and a race series for high schoolers, so you're not racing against adults, and there are tons of other young cyclists to hang out with. And the races are a total blast!! That's how Abby Shivers got her start mountain biking, and she hasn't looked back. I love her story, so we asked her to share it. I also love that even as a mountain biker, she hasn't just stayed riding trails. "This summer we have done all things on two wheels from road biking to downhill to bmx and expanding where we do our "normal" mountain biking. She really wants to take it to the next level and excel and this new found love of hers," her coach Kevin Watkinson explains. It's so important to try other types of riding because it not only makes you a better cyclist in your current discipline, it makes you a better all-around rider and you might discover that you really love another style of riding!

Why did you start riding bikes? How did you discover NICA?

So when I was about 6 or 7, I taught myself how to ride a bike. I would typically just ride around my neighborhood. Then when I was 8, I moved to NJ and ended up no longer having access to a bike to ride. About a year and a half ago, I was convinced by my boyfriend at the time to come try out mountain biking, so I did and I ended up loving it! That’s how I started mountain biking and came across NICA.

What was your favorite part?

My favorite part of biking overall is the freedom that it gives me. I really love riding on trails and riding through all different types of obstacles.

What was the hardest part?

For me the hardest part is usually having confidence while I’m out riding.

What made you choose to focus on MTB?

Mountain biking is what I was given the invitation to try out and it has ended up being my favorite thing to do. More recently, I have tried out other disciplines of biking, but I definitely love mountain biking the most.

What was the best tip or trick you've ever been told?

The best tip I’d say that I’ve been given is to try out new places to ride and even just trying a variety of obstacles while I’m out riding because it gets me out of my comfort zone and helps me be more aware of what I’m capable of.

What's your proudest accomplishment?

My proudest accomplishment is definitely continuing to ride even after going through some pretty challenging events in my personal life. As well as being able to complete all three of my laps at the NICA races. That was a really big goal of mine this past season.

What are your goals in cycling?

My goals include improving my skills and participating in some non-NICA races. I also want to go to a college where I can be on the school’s mountain biking team.

Any advice for younger girls interested in riding?

My advice to younger girls interested in riding is to definitely go out and give it a try. Be open to trying new things while out riding and for them to invite their friends to join them. Riding is always more fun when with friends in my opinion.

Do you have any advice for making friends while riding — for me, that was the tough part and something I know is hard & intimidating for a lot of girls! I imagine NICA had a lot to do with this.

It is definitely a challenge to make friends while riding, but it’s totally worth it! While it can be challenging, working up the courage to start a conversation with other girls who ride can lead to great friendships and having a wonderful group of girls who all share a passion for biking is a wonderful thing. Follow Abby on Instagram!

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