On the Right Track: Your Guide to Cycling in the Cruz

On any given day of the week, it’s almost impossible to roam the streets of Santa Cruz without seeing a team of cyclists in vibrant spandex or a group of runners pass you by. Or perhaps, you are a beach enthusiast and you spot a family of seals wading in the ocean, only to find out the seals are actually a team of swimmers wearing swim caps.

These are common scenes in Santa Cruz County, as we have impeccable weather for pursuing and excelling at endurance sports. The cool and breezy climate and endless scenic trails for biking and running make Santa Cruz a haven for athletes.

There are several clubs in the area that offer mentoring and coaching services to the weekend warrior or the ultra competitive. Take a step towards a healthy mind and body and look into one of the clubs listed below.

Santa Cruz Endurance is a triathlon and running club based in Santa Cruz. It is recognized as a community of athletes who wish to train and race together in a competitive yet fun and social environment. Team members enter high-profile, local and national events that include running, triathlon, and cycling. Interested in taking it to the next level? Try SCE.

Santa Cruz Track Club is a non-profit organization established in 1989 to promote running and track and field by providing coaching and support programs in our community. The club operates two sections—one for adults and one for youth. It also helps local organizers of road races and track meets with event management. Members are a diverse, multi-talented group of athletes which includes sprinters, hurdlers, middle distance runners, marathoners, ultra-marathoners, race walkers, track and field competitors and triathletes.           

Santa Cruz County Cycling Club brings cycling to all levels of riders, and encourages healthy lifestyles through education, friendship, teamwork and fun. The club is open to all levels of riders and is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization working to support cycling growth and education in Santa Cruz County. Bicycle club members lead group rides for the enjoyment and pleasure of the bicycling community. These rides are social and educational events. Experienced riders are always on hand to answer cycling related questions and instruct less experienced riders on the fundamentals of group riding, vehicular cycling and bicycle maintenance.

Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to the promotion of mountain biking in a healthy and environmentally sound manner. The club is happy to help all levels of riders get to know our local trails in. Join them for one of their weekly rides on the beautiful trails of Santa Cruz. The club sponsors events, and funds improvements to local trails and parks and also advocates for the creation and preservation of multi-use trails throughout the county.

There you have it—four clubs to help you get on the right track to a healthy mind and body.