Today we’d like to introduce you to Nina Rogers-Koile. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Toby and Nina are both active members in the mountain biking community, serving on their local chapter boards and also contributing to the growth of trails here in Louisiana. Toby is an integral part of the mountain bike scene and development of Bogue Chitto State park. He has worked with the state and local officials to bring a world-class mountain biking system to the area. Nina is also big in the community and assists with local biking events and women’s group rides.
During a group ride, Toby mentioned to Nina that he would like help with creating more group activities. When they got together to discuss, they agreed that there was an exciting opportunity to get more people out to enjoy the trails as they did. However, with so many new riders and so many new features for experienced riders at the park, an educational approach would be even better. From here, they both went to get certified and decided to start Dirt Coaster Academy. The name would be a direct pull from the park that they both love, where each section of the trail is named after a Louisiana rollercoaster. Mountain biking is like riding a roller coaster on dirt – and they can teach you how!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
After getting certified, we were left out in the wild. All decisions on pricing, class sizes, structure, cadence, etc., were left to us to figure out. We also had the challenge of gaining credibility with those that have been riding for years, not just new riders. All of our classes focus on progression, and some clients find it hard to go back to the basics.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Dirt Coaster Academy?
Dirt Coaster Academy is a professional mountain biking instruction company. The two instructors are well known in the industry and have the experience and awards to prove it. Run by both a male and female, clients really can be comfortable knowing that there is someone teaching them that understands their perspectives and challenges. Whether someone wants to jump the highest jump or if they want to be the fastest cross-country racer, DCA offers coaching to get them there.
As far as brand, we are most proud of our name. We truly believe that riding a mountain bike down a trail should feel like the same exhilarating experience as a roller coaster.
DCA teaches all over the South region. We travel often and offer group and private lessons.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
To those starting out, I would suggest doing a competitive analysis. This job takes a ton of time, and the market really can’t bare more than one or two mtb instruction companies in the region.
Pricing:
- Fundamentals classes start at $30/hour
- Group classes for more advanced skills start out at $80/hr
- Private or semi-private lessons are $100/hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dirtcoasteracademy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirtcoasteracademy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DirtCoasterAcademy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6Fc3iqxu8NyDjvZPvEXSBg
Image Credits
P.j. Hahn, photographer https://www.facebook.com/pjhahnnola
