Phoenix MTB Reveal: Sponsor Camp Surprise!

Mountain Bike Team Sponsor Reveals New Athlete in Disguise

PHOENIX, AZ – February 12, 2026 – A professional mountain biker arrived in Phoenix, Arizona, earlier this week disguised as part of a press camp with a new sponsor. The athlete, whose name has not been publicly released, reportedly attended the event “in disguise,” successfully concealing their identity from the media until a moment of levity revealed their presence.

The unusual arrival was revealed in a social media post, where the athlete described arriving “in disguise” for the press camp. The post indicated the athlete’s identity remained a secret until a spontaneous laugh gave them away.

The sponsorship and press camp are taking place as the BASIS Phoenix Mountain Bike Team actively seeks funding for the upcoming season. According to information released by the team, sponsorship dollars are crucial for covering a wide range of expenses, including team uniforms, race-day equipment like spare tires and bike stands, and essential team supplies such as first aid kits and food.

The financial needs of the team extend beyond basic equipment. Funding also supports First Aid training for volunteer coaches and provides travel stipends to allow athletes to compete in races. The team emphasizes the significant cost of participation, encompassing mountain bikes, maintenance, uniforms, helmets, trainers, indoor training fees, heart rate monitors, nutrition, transportation, lodging, race fees, and insurance.

“Without your generous support the Mountain Bike Team would not exist,” the team states on its sponsorship page. “Your financial support makes it possible to offer this program to the students of BASIS Phoenix.” The team highlights the developmental benefits of the sport, noting that it provides students with an activity they can enjoy throughout their lives, fostering strong body, mind, and character.

The BASIS Phoenix Mountain Bike Team’s fundraising efforts come as mountain biking continues to grow in popularity across Arizona. The Mountain Bike Association of Arizona (MBAA) is actively involved in raising funds for trail projects throughout the state, with proceeds from race entries directly reinvested into trail maintenance and development. The MBAA is also seeking sponsors and vendors for its 2026 race series, which includes events like the McDowell Meltdown (January 10), the Estrella Hedgehog Hustle (January 24), Havasu Havoc, Prescott Punisher, and Flagstaff Frenzy.

The Specialized Cactus Cup, a major mountain biking event held at McDowell Mountain Regional Park, just 40 minutes from Phoenix, is also gearing up for another season. The event, scheduled to include pro panels, kids’ events, camping, and demo opportunities, aims to kick off the mountain bike season for riders of all levels.

The arrival of a high-profile athlete in Phoenix, coupled with the ongoing fundraising efforts of local teams and organizations, underscores the growing momentum of the mountain biking community in Arizona. The BASIS Phoenix team hopes that increased sponsorship will allow them to lower participation costs and make the sport accessible to more students.