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The South Arkansas Flow Mountain Bike Team has wrapped up its second successful season, continuing to inspire young riders across Drew County through teamwork, endurance and community spirit.
Open to boys and girls from fifth through twelfth grades, the team’s mission is to “build strong minds, bodies, character, and communities through cycling.” Students from both the Monticello and Drew Central School Districts make up the growing group, which has quickly become a source of pride for the community.
The team formed in 2024 after one of the coaches learned about the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) through friends. NICA oversees 33 active leagues across the nation, and Drew County now proudly represents one of them.
South Arkansas Flow began its first season with eight riders. This year, seven dedicated cyclists completed the four-month riding season, which runs from July through October. Practices are typically held twice a week, with riders logging between six and twelve miles each week at Lakewoods Trails on Lake Monticello. The local trail system currently offers about seven miles of scenic paths, with more routes planned for future expansion.
Competing in the Plains region of the Arkansas league, the team has faced off against groups from Mountain Home, Jonesboro, Conway and Hot Springs. Races take place every other weekend and span two days of competition. Despite being a relatively new team, South Arkansas Flow has already celebrated multiple podium finishes during its first two seasons.
Team Director and Coach Jeff Newton said the most rewarding part of the year wasn’t just the race results but the growth and camaraderie among the riders.
“The biggest accomplishment this season has been the team pushing each other and being supportive of one another from practice to races,” Newton said. “They’re friends outside of the team and have become better riders together.”
The team also makes a point to give back to the community. Alongside their three coaches, members have taken part in events such as the Spooks and Spokes Halloween celebration at Lakewoods Trails and presentations with the local Boy Scouts about bicycle safety.
The Trail Organization of the Arkansas Delta (TOAD) has provided significant support, including jerseys, tents for competitions, and even bicycle-riding curriculum for kindergarten students in Drew County schools.
Students from Monticello, Drew Central and surrounding communities are welcome to join the team. While there is a registration fee and equipment requirement, financial assistance is available to make sure all interested riders can participate.
For South Arkansas Flow, the future looks bright as they continue to build not only stronger cyclists but stronger friendships and communities—one ride at a time.
