Forged from the love of cycling

For over three decades, the Rigtech Sonics Cycle Club in south Trinidad has been a cornerstone of cycling development, nurturing national representatives, Commonwealth Games athletes, and Olympians. However, head coach Roger Frontin believes the club's most significant achievement lies in its fundamental mission: teaching all riders to enjoy their bicycles and explore the world with friends.

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We teach all riders to ride and enjoy their bicycles, have fun with their friends and give them the freedom to explore

Frontin explained that for the majority of riders aged five to 10, the focus is on fun and friendly competition rather than intense rivalry. "Safety is paramount because they're travelling at some speed, so we provide a safe and comfortable environment where every rider can reach their goals," he said. This philosophy, established by founder Noel Luces in 1991, guides the club's approach to youth development.

Over the years, Sonics has been instrumental in developing prominent Trinidad and Tobago cyclists, including Olympians Njisane Phillip and Nicholas Paul, and professional rider Teniel Campbell. Despite this international success, Frontin stressed that the club prioritizes developing well-rounded individuals before focusing solely on athletic prowess. "We incorporate our cycling activities with academics, discipline, teamwork and even the ability to handle disappointment," Frontin noted, adding that they also teach etiquette and manners.

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The majority of them between the ages of five and 10 are not really interested in competition. They’re more interested in having fun racing and competing with their friends. Safety is paramount because they’re travelling at some speed, so we provide a safe and comfortable environment where every rider can reach their goals.

The club's holistic approach has extended beyond the cycling track, fostering a long-standing partnership with St Sylvan's Anglican Primary School. Teachers observed improved academic performance in students involved with the club, leading to the creation of a cycling program at the school. Frontin, who initially joined the club seeking recreational activities for his children, now serves as vice-president and head coach, continuing Luces' vision for youth development.

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We incorporate our cycling activities with academics, discipline, teamwork and even the ability to handle disappointment. We also try to teach etiquette and manners. It’s about developing the individual in a holistic way.

Based at Skinner Park in San Fernando, Sonics attracts riders from across Trinidad. However, the club has faced challenges due to the closure of the Skinner Park cycling facility.

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It really shows how simple it is for a cycling club to partner with a school. You could get numerous young children involved in the sport.