Rob St. Marseille purchased his first mountain   bike only ten years ago. He quickly found out   that mountain biking was more than just a   sport for him; it was his newfound passion.

With his enthusiasm and love for the sport growing, St. Marseille realized that there was a strong need for a mountain biking group in Sudbury. He and some dedicated fellow mountain bikers founded the Walden Mountain Bike Club in January 2009.

"The Walden Mountain Bike Club offers a place to learn about bike safety as well as new places to ride. It also educates on how to take care of your bike,” says St. Marseille, who serves as the club’s President. “It also teaches you about being a better rider and prepares you to ride more technical trails.”

The Walden Mountain Bike Club is thriving, gaining new members at a steady pace. A fun alternative to staying indoors, mountain biking offers kids, teens and adults alike something new, fun and interesting to do together outside during the summer months. People of all ages are encouraged to join the club for an enjoyable and entertaining way to get into shape.

“Mountain Biking offers a close to nature, fitness-based alternative for parents looking to find activities for their children during the summer,” says St. Marseille. “It gives kids something to do besides playing video games and hanging out at the mall. It's way more fun, and a lot better for you – you can do it your whole life."

The Walden Mountain Bike Club is affiliated with the Ontario Cycling Association, the Canadian Cycling Association and the International Mountain Bicycling Association, allowing members the opportunity to ride with insurance. The Club already has a racing program, has riders competing in Ontario Cup events and hopes eventually, to have members competing in the Ontario Summer Games or even the Canada Summer Games.