A Monthly Online Skill Builder Series
JUNE EDITION 2025 – Cornering
Cornering is one of the most defining skills in mountain biking—it’s where flow is built, speed is carried, and confidence shines. But there’s a lot more to a perfect turn than leaning in and hoping for the best. From braking technique and body position to vision and line choice, mastering corners means blending control, awareness, and a finely tuned setup. In this episode, we’re breaking down what really matters when you enter a turn—from how to approach braking and where to look, to subtle but powerful body movements that help you stay planted and fast. Whether you’re riding flat switchbacks or railing berms, these fundamentals will sharpen your cornering game and help you ride with more precision and control.
Family Progression: Building Skills and Memories
Meet the Eaves Family from Dublin, New Hampshire—a crew of passionate riders and lifelong learners who have made Highland Mountain Bike Park a cornerstone of their family adventures. With five kids in tow—Kamryn (24), Konner (12), Kortlynn (9), Kensingten (6), and Kodahsun (3)—the Eaves family isn’t just participating in the sport of mountain biking. They’re growing up with it.
Their biking story began in 2012 when they moved to Dublin and started exploring local trails. A few years later, a neighborhood pump track opened up and ignited a spark, especially for then-3-year-old Konner, who rode it daily. From the start, they were always pedaling—often with a Burley trailer tagging along behind.
Progression Through Programs
Since that first visit, the Eaves kids have embraced every opportunity to ride and grow. They’ve participated in Kids Camp, After School Program, Summer Ride, Ayr Academy, and private coaching. Every program has offered more than just instruction—it’s built confidence, technique, and camaraderie.
Foundational skills like line choice, positioning, and cornering became family mantras. “Flat feet, butt off your seat” is the rallying cry for Kortlynn and Kensingten, echoing down the trails as they ride.
Breakthrough Moments
Each child has had their own breakthrough—a turning point where everything clicked.
For Konner, it was hitting Reef Drop for the first time with Coach Lucas and unlocking tricks inside the HTC during summer camp. For Kortlynn, it was Stepping Stone. “We worked on it for a few weeks. My coach taught me speed and body positioning… then I did it. I was so happy.”
These moments of growth aren’t just about mastering features—they’re about learning perseverance, patience, and trusting the process of progression.
Growth Beyond the Programs
These lessons carry into every ride. Kortlynn reflects on last summer’s overnight Summer Ride camp and a full season of Saturday Kids Camps: “Both helped improve my confidence and skills. By the middle of last summer, I was able to hit Silver Spoon. I worked for hours with my coaches all summer on dropping technique. I was so proud of myself when I hit Dirty Bird by the end of the summer.”
Their passion has spilled into the local riding scene as well. Konner and Kortlynn ride for the Chain Gang, a NEYC-affiliated team that trains at Highland during Wednesduro. It’s helped reinforce the structure and motivation they first found through Highland’s coaching programs.
Looking Ahead
Kensingten, began with private coaching last summer and quickly jumped into Kids Camp. Her skills have grown immensely—now riding faster, holding solid form, and even clearing the first drop in the Jumps and Drops Zone. She’s currently working on Cats Paw with her coaches.
As for what’s next?
Konner has his sights set on tackling Tombstone and competing in the Friday Night Race Series. Kortlynn wants to gain confidence on tech trails like Fancy Feast and race for the first time this summer. She even has a goal of towing her baby brother Kodahsun up Freedom Trail during Wednesduro. Kensi has a goal of her own too: “To teach my mom to ride like me!”
Final Thoughts
Asked what they’d say to others considering Highland programs, Konner doesn’t hesitate:
“Come to camp—it will be your best summer!”
For the Eaves family, Highland isn’t just a place to ride bikes. It’s where skills are sharpened, confidence is built, and unforgettable family memories are made—one drop, jump, and turn at a time.
Make This a Summer to Remember at Highland Mountain Bike Park
At Highland, summer isn’t just a season—it’s a chance to progress, ride with purpose, and have an unforgettable time on two wheels. Our Summer Camps are designed to help young riders build confidence, sharpen skills, and discover just how fun mountain biking can be. Whether it’s your first time riding lift-access trails or you’re chasing bigger sends, Highland’s coaching programs meet riders where they’re at and help them reach the next level. With world-class trails, passionate coaches, and a community that feels like family, there’s no better place to ride, learn, and grow
2025 Session Dates
Session 1 | June 22 – June 28
Session 2 | June 29 – July 5
Session 3 | July 6 – July 12
Session 4 | July 13 – July 19
Session 5 | July 20 – July 26
Session 6 | July 27 – August 2
Session 7 | August 3 – August 9
Summer Ride | Ages 8–13
This three-day camp is the perfect way to jump into downhill riding. Designed for young riders who are new to lift-access terrain or still building their foundation, Summer Ride blends expert instruction with a playful atmosphere. Campers build core techniques like body positioning, braking, and cornering while having a blast riding with friends and learning from Highland’s supportive coaching staff.
Ayr Academy | Ages 11–16
Our weeklong flagship program is built for riders with some experience who are ready to push themselves. With pro-level coaching, technical trail sessions, and focused skill progression, Ayr Academy is where young riders level up—fast. Small groups ensure personalized feedback as campers tackle jumps, drops, and advanced terrain, all while building lasting friendships and learning what it means to ride with confidence and control.
From morning laps to evening laughs, Highland Summer Camps are about more than just riding—they’re about growing as a rider and having the time of your life. Day and overnight options are available, with sessions running from June through August. Let’s make this summer one to remember.
Upcoming Dates & Programs
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- JULY 4 – Open Independence Day
- Find Your Ride 3-Pack
- Kids Camp
- Fall Adult Ayr Academy
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June 27 – Fancy Feast
July 11 – Bonesaw to Jack Rabbit Run
July 25 – Maiden Voyage
August 1 – Bonesaw to Jack Rabbit Run
August 15 – Maiden Voyage
August 22 – Fancy Feast
