The Kids Are Alright: Caileigh Koppang

The youth of today are the future of our sport, and we appreciate the fire these young rippers bring to the world. From freeride to XC, the youngsters are on fire and doing exciting things. The Kids Are Alright will be a running column showcasing the up-and-comers who are keeping things fresh, dialed, sick, and whatever else the kids are saying these days. If you want to nominate someone, please, shoot me an email !

Caileigh is a rising force in the DH scene with an impressive collection of podiums and a passion for absolutely sending it. Caileigh took some time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions so we could all get to know this talented rider a bit more. If you aren’t already paying attention to what Caileigh is up to, now is a great time to start!

Age : 15

Hometown : North Shore Area of Vancouver.

Main Focus : Downhill

Where do you live now?

I live here in North Vancouver in Deep Cove.

When did you find the love for the bike, and what made you stick with it?

I fell in love with mountain biking instantly during Covid when some of my sister's older friends took me up Seymour to ride. From that moment, I never looked back. What motivated me to stick with mountain biking was the sense of freedom and adventure it provided. The challenge of navigating tough trails and the thrill of speed.

What is the earliest memory you have of bikes?

My earliest memory of bikes is learning to ride without training wheels. I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as I tried to balance for the first time. I was three when the training wheels came off of the bigger bike. Shout out to my toddler balance bike, that really paid off.

How vital is the support from family to keep racing? Would you be where you are today without them?

My Family's support is crucial in racing. They provide essential encouragement and make everything possible. I believe my family's support is what keeps me going and helps me achieve my racing goals. My sponsors, We Are One, also play a huge role by providing me with a super fast prototype downhill bike and mechanical support at the races to keep my rig performing at its best. NF Riding also makes sure I have the freshest, sharpest kits.

Favorite Place to Ride?

Cypress / Whistler bike park / Rotorua.

Favorite Ride Snack?

Clif bars / Stinger energy chews or the Stinger waffle biscuits.

Current Soundtrack?

I don’t have one in particular in mind; there are sooo many.

What is the first thing you do after a ride?

wash my bike :)

Dream Event to Ride?

Red Bull Hardline, for sure!

Biggest Inspiration (This can be another rider or athlete, or anyone/anything)?

Vali Höll is an inspiration. She has demonstrated incredible skill and determination in downhill mountain biking, quickly rising to the top of the sport despite her young age. As a successful female athlete in a male dominated sport, Vali Höll serves as a role model and inspiration for young women and girls. She proves that with hard work and passion women can excel in extreme sport. Her dedication to training, ability to overcome injuries, shows her resilience and passion for the sport.

Least Favorite Part of the Sport?

Climbing...

Favorite Non-Cycling Sport to Watch/Play?

Motocross

Greatest Achievement on the Bike?

Hitting huge drops and racing gnarly downhill tracks, I never thought I’d be able to do.

What are you looking forward to the most in the next 12 months?

I have really enjoyed competing internationally this year and hope to do more of it next year. I am hoping to compete in Europe next year at the IXS Downhill Cups.

Shout outs?

I'd like to give a shout-out to my main sponsors, We Are One and Ride NF, who have been incredibly supportive. Their contributions have significantly enhanced my mountain biking journey. Thank you for believing in me!

Follow Caileigh's journey on social media and help us wish her all the best as she recovers from a massive knock at Kicking Horse. Her presence was definitely missed at Crankworx Whistler this year!

Check out the rest of the series:

Related: The Kids Are Alright: Jonny Davie