Cycling Clubs: The Heart of the Community – Country Cycle
Country Cycle
Building Community Through Cycling
May 1, 2025
Country Cycle Club Profile:
- Established: 2009 (under current ownership)
- Location: Southern Region, Morden, MB.
- Primary Disciplines: Mountain Biking, Gravel, Youth (Kids of Mud)
- Club Focus: Community-driven, youth development, recreational and competitive cycling.
- New Rider Support: Mentorship and training programs; beginner-friendly
- Club Activities: Weekly Kids of Mud rides, Back 40 MTB race, Purgatory 100 Gravel, Deadhorse Cross, Indigenous youth races
- Current Members: 30
- Website: www.countrycycle.ca
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
Country Cycle: Building Community Through Cycling
Founded in 2009 under its current ownership, Country Cycle has become a vibrant part of the cycling community in southern Manitoba. The club is committed to creating an environment that welcomes everyone, combining competitive cycling, youth development, recreation, and social rides under one supportive umbrella.
Located in the South region, Country Cycle offers programs across multiple disciplines, including Kids of Mud, mountain biking, and gravel riding. With approximately 30 members, the club focuses not only on skill development but also on community building, encouraging participation from riders of all ages and backgrounds.
We asked Peter Loewen, the president of Country Cycle, what sets the club apart, and he shared, “At Country Cycle, we focus on making cycling accessible to everyone. We believe that cycling is more than just a sport; it’s an opportunity to build relationships and create lasting memories.” His passion for the club’s mission is evident, as he continues to work with other members to grow their programs and expand community outreach.
A strong emphasis is placed on mentorship and training opportunities, helping new riders build skills and confidence. Country Cycle also encourages family involvement, often inviting parents to join in on Kids of Mud rides as a way to spend meaningful time with their children.
Beyond regular rides and programs, the club hosts several signature events throughout the year, including the Back 40 mountain bike race, the Purgatory 100 gravel race, and Deadhorse Cross. They have also organized Indigenous youth fun races, providing new opportunities for youth to experience cycling in a supportive setting.
One memorable moment from the club’s history happened during their first Indigenous youth bike race. A Grade 7 youth from Dakota Plains participated, even though he “knew little about shifting or braking and kept crashing because of it.” Peter shared,
“He also had a nasty cold so he was breathing very heavily. I managed to get him through the course without him losing his cool, and once at the finish line he was ‘Done!’ However, after a snack and some rest he approached me and asked if I could go around the course with him one more time.”
Stories like this reflect Country Cycle’s dedication to encouragement, resilience, and creating positive first experiences in cycling.
Community involvement remains central to Country Cycle’s mission. They continue to expand access to cycling through initiatives like the Indigenous Youth Bike Program and Basic Bike Repair Workshops, helping build strong foundations both on and off the bike.
Country Cycle is grateful for the volunteers who keep the programs running smoothly, particularly recognizing the efforts of Luke Brodland and Paul Fehr for their leadership in the Kids of Mud program.
With a spirit rooted in welcoming new riders, offering mentorship, and building a strong community connection, Country Cycle continues to be a place where cyclists can ride, race, learn, and grow together.
Learn more at www.countrycycle.ca or follow them on Instagram @countrycycle.