USO NEXT GEN Downhill
“NEXT GEN” applies to Fox US OPEN categories for athletes 14yrs-old and younger. This program starts on a separate, youth specific NEXT GEN Novice downhill track with classes beginning at 5yrs old and advances all the way to our brand new Cat 1 classes on the main USO Downhill Track.
NEW - In response to the growth of the 11-14yr old segment, we are working in conjunction with USA Cycling to offer two different category levels for this age group at the Fox US OPEN. In addition to the standard Cat 2/3 categories, athletes with strong results can select to compete in the following categories:
NEXT GEN Expert/Cat 1 Boys 11yrs-12yrs
NEXT GEN Expert/Cat 1 Boys 13yrs-14yrs
NEXT GEN Expert/Cat 1 Girls 13yrs-14yrs
These test categories are designed for the athletes regularly placing in the top of their Cat 2/3 category. The goal is to create more even competition in both categories and a better race experience for all levels of athletes. This is a self-elected upgrade, specific to this event only and does not change the USA Cycling license level of any athlete. Please note that race organizers reserve the right to move athletes to their appropriate category during the US Open, if deemed necessary.
We hope that athletes in the top of the 11yrs-14yrs age group will take advantage of this opportunity and help USA Cycling develop the entire U15 racing platform as we move forward.
IMPORTANT - The following NEXT GEN Downhill Classes will compete on the main USO Downhill track and follow the main practice/competition schedule:
NEXT GEN Expert/Cat 1 Boys 11yrs-12yrs
NEXT GEN Expert/Cat 1 Boys 13yrs-14yrs
NEXT GEN Intermediate Cat 2 / 3 Yth Men 10-12
NEXT GEN Intermediate Cat 2 / 3 Yth Men 13-14
NEXT GEN Expert/Cat 1 Girls 13yrs-14yrs
NEXT GEN Novice Categories:
These categories will race on our youth specific track, located on “Rabbit Hole” on Killington’s Snowshed peak. Rabbit Hole will be open for freeriding everyday leading up to the NEXT GEN race and we strongly encourage everyone entering the NEXT GEN Novice Categories to spend time riding the trails. The trails will be closed to the public on Sunday morning for a mandatory practice session for all NEXT GEN Novice racers.
NEXT GEN Novice Track Categories:
Boys NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 13-14yrs
Girls NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 13-14yrs
Boys NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 11-12yrs
Girls NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 11-12yrs
Boys NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 9-10yrs
Girls NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 9-10yrs
Boys NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 7-8yrs
Girls NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 7-8yrs
NEXT GEN Novice Downhill 5-6yrs Mixed Boy/Girl
NEXT GEN Novice racing is not open to athletes already competing in NEXT GEN Downhill Classes on the main USO Downhill Track.
Please note that USO NEXT GEN racing is not a beginner or first-timer event – racers should have experience riding downhill and be capable of riding technical trails with rocks, roots, switchbacks, etc.
PLEASE READ - NEXT GEN Requirements to Race:
All NEXT GEN classes are designed for kids that have real off-road mountain bike experience (i.e. they have ridden at a bike park). Off-road riding ability is required.
Racers should be comfortable with fall line turns, rocks and small jumps and drops.
All NEXT GEN racers must be riding on mechanically sound mountain bikes (Race organizer reserves right to not allow unfit bikes on the course – entry will be refunded)
An adult must accompany all NEXT GEN Novice racers under 13 years old to the top of the course
Parents are permitted to follow their child down the NEXT GEN Novice race course for training and can request to follow during the race. (highly recommended for younger kids) (Lift tickets required)
Practice is mandatory
Racing age based on standard USA Cycling Racing Age (aka - racer's age as of 12/31/23)
Mandatory protective equipment: Full-face helmet, knee pads, elbow pads and gloves
USA Cycling Annual License or One-Day License required (available at registration)
Parents must be present to sign waivers