IMBA Canada announces reboot

The International Mountain Bicycling Association of Canada has announced plans for the 2014 season, which include restructuring of the organization to build stability into its future.

During the 2013 season, IMBA Canada was run by the IMBA headquarters in the U.S. while Canadian executive director Lora Woolner had temporarily stepped down on maternity leave. Without the direct attention and oversight of a Canadian staff, IMBA Canada struggled to maintain established levels of operation.

To help re-establish IMBA Canada, Woolner has returned to a joint leadership role with Ontario regional director Igor Hoogendoorn. The pair are establishing operations to meet existing commitments, while also working to develop a new organizational structure to ensure IMBA Canada will thrive into the future.

“I’m really excited to be back where I can make a difference, and to see the tremendous support from our members,” said Woolner. “It’s going to be a difficult year, but we’re definitely headed in the right direction.”

IMBA’s work is vital to the development of new mountain biking opportunities across Canada. The organization works with clubs and private landowners to establish good relationships and build an understanding of the value of trail stewardship.

As part of the reboot of IMBA Canada, communications have once again started, calling on members new and old to show continued support of the work done to preserve existing trails and help build new ones. Woolner and Hoogendoorn plan to reduce dependence on the U.S. office, while maintaining the values at the heart of the organization. Additionally, they remind supporters that just as before, Canadian dollars stay in Canada to support efforts north of the 49th parallel.

“While the future of IMBA Canada beyond 2014 is still to be given much consideration and careful planning, it is clear that in this time of restructuring, IMBA Canada needs your financial support. If you are a mountain biker or make your living via mountain biking, and you value what IMBA has done and is doing to keep the sport viable in Canada, then please consider joining or renewing, and/or donating to IMBA Canada today,” reads a release from IMBA Canada.