Seasonal events kick off at Lakeside Church in Folsom, then District Church course in El Dorado Hills
Biking for youth and adults alike is kicking off in grand fashion this week as locally based Clipped In for Life kicks off its Spring 2025 Folsom Grom Race Series Thursday evening with a free balance bike obstacle course—perfect for the littlest riders just starting their journey into the world of cycling. The special event is part of the organizations kick off for its Grom series, along with a new Monday night mounting bike race series in Folsom
Hosted at Lakeside Church in Folsom, the March 27 opener invites families to bring their toddlers and young children out between 4:00 and 5:30 p.m. to experience the excitement of biking in a safe, fun, and imaginative environment. The event marks the first of six Thursday night events that make up the Folsom Grom Race Series this spring, offering kids in fifth grade and under the chance to explore mountain bike racing in a welcoming, age-appropriate format.
The series opener is all about play, not podiums. While older racers will compete later in the evening, the youngest participants—those not yet racing—will get a turn to shine on a specially designed balance bike obstacle course. Featuring a bubble wrap “rock garden,” colorful pool noodle walls, and mini rumble strips, the interactive course helps kids learn balance and bike control while having a blast. The course is free to ride, and no pre-registration is necessary—just show up and sign a waiver. Balance bikes and helmets will be available to borrow for those who need them.
Although this Thursday’s event is a relaxed introduction, it sets the tone for what has become a beloved local tradition. The full Folsom Grom Race Series runs through May 8, alternating between two popular venues: Lakeside Church in Folsom and District Church in El Dorado Hills. Each location features custom-built flow trails tailored specifically for young riders. With courses up to one mile in length, the terrain is varied week-to-week to keep kids engaged and challenged while developing their skills.
Organizers emphasize that the series is focused on helping kids get on bikes, learn the basics of riding and racing, and most importantly, have fun. Whether it’s a child’s first time on a bike or they’re already building confidence on the trails, every participant can find a place in the Grom Series.
Racing categories are based on school grade and gender, and each racer gets 25 minutes to complete as many laps of the course as they can. From transitional kindergarten and kindergarten to fifth grade, racers experience the thrill of friendly competition in a format designed to teach race etiquette, trail awareness, and good sportsmanship.
Courses open for pre-riding before each race and again briefly between races. Parents are welcome to join their children during pre-ride sessions, but only registered Groms are allowed on the course during active race times. Kids who are unsure about racing are encouraged to try a pre-ride first; registration fees can be refunded if a child decides not to participate.
The series also includes podium ceremonies after each race, where the top 10 finishers in each category receive stickers for their race plates. Points are tallied throughout the season, with overall series champions crowned at the final race on May 8. To be eligible for series awards, racers must compete in at least four out of the six races.
Balance bike obstacle courses will be available again at Race 4 on April 24, held at District Church in El Dorado Hills.
From balance bikes to budding racers, the Folsom Grom Race Series is a community celebration of youth cycling. It encourages kids to be active, develop new skills, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with outdoor adventure. Whether you’re there to cheer on your racer or let your toddler explore their first course, Thursday’s kickoff is the perfect opportunity to get involved.
Lakeside Church is located at 745 Oak Avenue Parkway in Folsom. For full details on the schedule, locations, race categories, and future race dates, visit www.clippedinforlife.org/our-races/folsom-grom.
Monday Night FundRacing Series Adds More Ways to Ride and Give Back
In addition to the Thursday night Grom Series, Clipped In for Life is expanding opportunities for young riders—and the community at large—with the introduction of Monday Night FundRacing. This new, pay-what-you-can race series begins March 31 and offers four race nights: March 31 and April 7 at Lakeside Church in Folsom, followed by April 28 and May 5 at District Church in El Dorado Hills.
The FundRacing series aims to address a critical gap in youth cycling opportunities—particularly for kids whose families are not already involved in the sport. By removing financial barriers and emphasizing inclusivity, Clipped In for Life is working to help more children develop lifelong skills, healthy habits, and strong social connections through biking.
All proceeds from the Monday night events go directly toward expanding the nonprofit’s youth programs, which currently serve more than 400 kids ages 3–14 annually. With over 12,000 school-aged children in Folsom alone, the need for these programs continues to grow.
Participants in the FundRacing series not only get to enjoy fun, family-friendly racing, but also support a powerful mission: getting more kids on bikes for life. To learn more or register, visit www.clippedinforlife.org/our-races/monday-night-fundracing.
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