Team practices are designed to progressively build rider skills, fitness, and endurance throughout the season. Consistent participation is essential for athlete development and team cohesion. Riders are expected to attend all scheduled practices, when available.

Please refer to TeamSnap for the most up-to-date practice schedule.
Unless otherwise noted, practices will take place at Markham Park bike trails.

Monday   Markham Park 4:30pm

Tuesday  Velodrome at Brian Picklo park 6:30pm

Wensday Markham Park 4:30pm

Thursday Rest

Friday      Markham Park 4:30pm

As a member of Panther Composite, each athlete is expected to uphold the highest standards of effort, attitude, and responsibility both on and off the bike.

Conduct & Commitment

• Give 100% effort and strive for personal and team excellence.

• Maintain a positive, respectful attitude toward teammates, coaches, ride leaders, volunteers, and other trail users.

• Bullying, harassment, or the use of foul language will not be tolerated.

• Helmets must be worn at all times when riding a bike — no exceptions.

Preparedness

Athletes must come to every practice prepared with:

• A bike in safe, working condition

• Water (hydration is critical)

• A flat repair kit (spare tube, tire levers, CO₂ or pump)

• Nutrition/energy food if needed for longer rides

Substance Policy

• Use of tobacco, alcohol, or non-prescription drugs is strictly prohibited.

• In accordance with the NICA rulebook, athletes may not consume caffeine before practices or races.

Communication

• Athletes are expected to communicate regularly with coaches.

• Honest feedback — good, bad, or in between — is key to creating a positive and supportive team experience.

Markham Park, located at 16001 W State Rd 84 in Sunrise, Florida, is a premier destination for mountain biking enthusiasts in South Florida. The park boasts approximately 14 miles of diverse trails, catering to riders of all skill levels—from beginners to advanced. The terrain includes singletrack paths, rock gardens, fast-flowing berms, and technical climbs and descents, offering a comprehensive riding experience. 

For those new to mountain biking or seeking a less challenging ride, Markham Park offers an adaptive loop. This 2-mile trail is designed for off-road, hand-powered recumbent bikes and is also suitable for children and first-time riders.

Access and Fees:

• Riders must visit the park office near the entrance to view a safety video, sign a waiver, and purchase a Trail Access Card.
  
  

• Trail Access Cards are priced at $25 plus tax annually or $5 plus tax for a day pass.
  
  

Please note that the trails are occasionally closed during certain holidays and special events or races. 

Markham Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM. For more information, you can contact the park at (954) 357-8868 or visit their official website: Markham Park.

Location: Western Broward County, Florida
Length: Approximately 30+ miles
Surface: Hard-packed gravel and dirt
Access Points: Vista View Park, Markham Park, and other entrances along the levee system

Why It’s Great for Mountain Biking

1. Ideal for Endurance and Conditioning
The long, uninterrupted levee stretches are perfect for building cardiovascular endurance and maintaining a steady pace. It's an excellent route for time trials, long-distance rides, and off-road fitness training.

2. Consistent, Challenging Terrain
While the loop doesn't offer elevation changes like traditional mountain trails, its mixed gravel surface and exposure to wind and sun provide a natural resistance challenge. This helps riders develop mental toughness and physical stamina.

3. Scenic and Peaceful Environment
Riders are treated to expansive views of the Everglades, native wildlife, and open landscapes. It’s a quiet, vehicle-free environment that’s great for focused training and enjoying the natural beauty of South Florida.

4. Safe and Accessible
The wide path allows for side-by-side riding and group training without the hazards of motor traffic. This makes it a safe option for youth riders and team rides, especially for practicing formation and pacing.

5. Connection to Other Trails
The levee system connects to nearby parks like Markham Park, which offers technical singletrack mountain bike trails. Riders can start on the levee for a warm-up or endurance ride and then transition to more technical terrain.

Additional Considerations

• Hydration and Sun Protection: The trail has limited shade and no water refill stations, so bring plenty of water and sunblock.

• Bike Setup: A mountain bike or gravel bike with wider tires is recommended for the loose gravel surface.

• Wildlife Awareness: The trail borders the Everglades, so riders may encounter birds, reptiles, and other wildlife.
  
  

This trail is particularly valuable for youth development programs like NICA teams, offering a safe space to build endurance, confidence, and group-riding skills in a controlled environment.

The Brian Piccolo velodrome isn’t just a unique facility; it’s a development powerhouse. With its technical layout, event structure from FVA, supportive climate, and community events, it offers your team an edge—fostering speed, strategy, discipline, and unity. Whether riders are new to track or seasoned competitors, training here enhances their abilities and prepares them to dominate both on the track and the trails. 

 Facility Highlights

• 333.3 m outdoor concrete track with a maximum 30° banking in the curves, plus a 200 m warm-up track inside the infield with gentler banking

• Floodlighting for night sessions, allowing for flexible training schedules 

• Constructed in 1992, it remains Florida’s only velodrome and one of just three in the Southeast 

• Managed in partnership with the Florida Velodrome Association (FVA), which runs structured programs, youth clinics, and regular competitive events 

Why It’s Great for NICA Development

Skill Advancement

Tracks like this help riders master high-speed handling, cornering, pacing, and relative positioning—skills that improve cross-country and course performance.

Year-Round Access

South Florida’s mild winters and floodlit sessions mean your team can train consistently through the off-season.

Community & Exposure

Exposure to track cycling adds depth to riders’ skill sets and connects them with local cycling networks, sponsors, and competitive events—boosting team visibility and support.

Mental Toughness

Track racing’s intense, tactical bouts build mental resilience, speed, and competitiveness—traits that directly translate to NICA races.