IMBA National Mountain Bike Patrol to Launch Certification Program

For Immediate Release
02-20-07
Contact: Spencer Powlison, Field Programs Coordinator

303-545-9011

IMBA is pleased to announce that a new certification program for the National Mountain Bike Patrol (NMBP) program will launch March 14, 2007.

The exam will consist of multiple-choice questions pulled from a large pool, collected from a variety of sources. Each new and renewing patroller will be required to pass the exam. The questions relate to real-world situations and have clear correct answers. They address basic first aid, environmental knowledge, trailside bike repair and risk assessment.

As the NMBP becomes increasingly affiliated with other organizations, such as National Ski Patrol, Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service and National Park Service, a uniform patroller certification standard helps build partnerships, and shows that the NMBP is able to consistently measure patrollers' training and knowledge. This will enable the NMBP to present a level of uniformity to potential partners and sponsors. Further, it will give patrollers and patrol directors a new tool to improve their knowledge and skills.

We plan to offer the test online beginning March 14, 2007. Once it is up, all patrollers, new and renewing, will be required to take the test in order to fully activate their memberships. Please refer to the NMBP section of imba.com for more information, or contact NMBP coordinator, .