Master the Journey 2026 Event Details

Master the Journey is focused on supporting the Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) community by

• Offering a family-friendly mountain bike events to complement existing T1D community support events and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for the T1D community by encouraging participation in mountain biking and lowering barriers to entry. 
   

• Reducing financial strain on T1D patients and their families by directing event proceeds to the Children’s Diabetes Foundation Helping Hand Program. 

On August 15th, 2026, Master the Journey will host youth mountain bikes races at Fountain Valley School in Colorado Springs, CO. The event will feature U19, U17, and U15 race categories on an approximately 7-mile course.  U19 and U17 participants will race 2 laps, while U15 participants will race 1 lap. Here are the rules:  

1. Have fun, be safe, encourage each other.

2. Helmets are required at all times when riding.  This applies to all event attendees.

3. Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco products are strictly prohibited.

4. Race age categories are determined by birth year.  Racers can choose to compete in a higher age group if desired, but may not race in a lower age group.   (Racing in a higher age group is not recommended.  Racers, please consult with your coach if you decide to compete outside of your age group.)

5. Rider starting position for each category will be determined by Colorado High School Cycling League (Colorado League) ranking at the conclusion of the 2025 season, in hierarchical order, starting with varsity.  Colorado League riders must register by August 5th, 2026 in order to secure starting position as a function of their 2025 league ranking.

6. Starting position for riders who do not have a 2025 Colorado League ranking and Colorado League riders who register after August 5th, 2026 will be determined by registration order, after assignment of starting positions for riders with a 2025 Colorado League ranking who registered by August 5th, 2026.

7. Riders must stay on marked course.  Violations of this rule may lead to disqualification.

8. This is a family-friendly event.  Profane, offensive behavior will not be tolerated.  Attendees who mistreat others may be asked to leave.

Following the races, a portion of the course will be open for a Fun-Ride for all attendees (pre-registration required).

Why are we focused on T1D?  

People with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) cannot live without continuous insulin therapy, delivered via multiple daily injections or insulin pump.  Out-of-pocket expenses for these patients and their families create disproportionate financial strain that is over 2 times the national average. According to the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, 

• “Over 40% of Barbara Davis Center patients are uninsured or underinsured. 
   

• “On average, the first year of care for a newly diagnosed type 1 is $20,000. 
   

• “Type 1 diabetes is the only disease where patients and caregivers are making life and death insulin dosing decisions, and they are doing it every hour of every day. 
   

• “Diabetes is expensive. New Onset patients spend about $1,400 on education and appointment fees. Pump Therapy can create better control but can cost up to $1,200 each month. Insulin for children can cost about $300 a month. Testing 6-8 times a day is normal and all those test strips add up to about $300 a month.” 

The overall health and quality of life for people with T1D is significantly improved with routine physical activity.  Action sports, such as mountain biking, promote healthy living while also imbuing a sense of thrill and excitement for the participants.  Master the Journey is focused on raising awareness for the T1D community, introducing both new and experienced riders to youth mountain bike racing, and supporting T1D families in need.

How can I get involved?

Registration for this event opens on April 1st, 2026 on BikeReg.com. Everyone is welcome to participate, whether you are interested in competing in the race, volunteering to help out on race day, or wanting to experience the race course during the Fun Ride.