Through word of mouth, the Northampton Cycling Club and its youth cyclocross team, the Trail Blasters, have exploded in popularity, growing from around 15 kids in 2022 to 40 and counting. The youth program has practices two times a week behind Glendale Ridge Vineyard for children of all skill levels ages 9-19, and new this year, a weekly race series on Wednesday nights with categories for all ages. The sport mixes elements of competitive mountain biking and cross-country running. Each course is different, with a variety of terrain, from rolling grassy hills to wooded and moderately rocky areas. Along with the different terrains, there are a few man-made elements, like wooden barriers cyclists can hop over while biking or run over while carrying their bike. Photo: Mykola Voyevidka, 14, jumps over a barrier during the Northampton Cycling Club’s youth cyclocross racing practice. For the dailyhampshiregazette #massachusetts #journalism #photography #news #photo Noa Nadut, 15, races th...