A Commitment to Confident, Safe, and Supported Riding
Wheels Up MTB was built to give kids and families a positive, supportive entry into mountain biking and a clear path forward as riders grow.
Our programs are grounded in thoughtful coaching, intentional progression, and clear communication with families. We focus on helping riders build confidence, skills, and independence at a pace that feels appropriate and sustainable, whether they are brand new to trail riding or ready for more challenge.
Behind the scenes, our coaching team brings decades of combined experience in education, youth instruction, and mountain biking. That background allows us to create structured, well-run programs that prioritize safety, learning, and positive experiences on the bike. We believe great coaching is not about pushing riders faster, but about helping them progress with confidence and clarity.
Since 2007, Wheels Up has supported riders of all ages and abilities through small-group coaching, camps, weekly rides, and team programs. Families appreciate our calm, organized approach and our focus on placing riders in programs that truly fit their experience and goals.
Wheels Up is more than a skills program. It is a community built around encouragement, consistency, and helping riders enjoy mountain biking for the long term.
Cody Jones
Founder, Coach, and Educator
Wheels Up was founded by Cody Jones, an educator and lifelong cyclist who believes that kids learn best when they feel supported, understood, and challenged at the right time.
Cody’s background combines professional teaching experience with decades of riding across many styles of cycling. Early on, he saw a gap between traditional youth sports models and what kids actually needed to grow confidently in mountain biking. Wheels Up began as a small youth program within a local school district and has grown steadily through word of mouth, community trust, and consistent coaching.
Cody has continued to invest in professional development throughout his career, earning nationally recognized mountain bike instruction and safety certifications. More importantly, he brings an educator’s mindset to every program: clear expectations, thoughtful progression, and an understanding that each rider develops differently.
Over the years, Cody has helped expand youth mountain biking opportunities locally and regionally, while also developing adult and women-specific programming for riders looking to improve skills and confidence. Wheels Up now offers programs across the Midwest and beyond, while maintaining a strong local focus in the St. Louis area.
Today, Cody remains directly involved in coaching, evaluations, and program design. Families value his approachable style, honest guidance, and willingness to help parents decide what makes sense for their child without pressure.
Wheels Up continues to grow with one guiding principle in mind: create safe, meaningful riding experiences that help people enjoy mountain biking for life.
Passionate KC Enduro Head Coach and Mountain Biking Advocate!
Marissa Celia
Hi, I’m Marissa! While my biking journey started in 2016, the sport has quickly become my passion and a major part of my life. Over the years, I’ve immersed myself in various clinics and explored numerous rad biking spots. For the past two years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to serve as the Head Coach of the LS Composite Sharks.
Mountain biking, for me, is more than just a sport; it’s a therapeutic escape into the woods. I’m driven to provide a positive outlet for young people and showcase the lifelong joys of riding. Being part of NICA and Wheels Up Enduro allows us to demonstrate to kids that mountain biking isn’t just a school sport—it’s a lifelong adventure!
Excitingly, I’ve joined the Wheels Up Enduro team, and I’m genuinely thrilled. Enduro riding is my personal preference, and while I may not be the best rider out there, I understand that coaching is about passion, commitment, and nurturing the next generation of riders. Let’s ride and inspire the next generation together!
A Teacher & Mom’s Touch!
Tracy Jones
Sixteen years ago, I got my first taste of mountain biking while trying to impress a boy and stay unharmed on my loaned mountain bike. While I got the boy, I wouldn’t say that I stayed unharmed for long. But like a true adventurer, that thrill of new obstacles, challenges, and trails turned that weariness into a love for the sport. Nowadays, I spend most of my time teaching and chasing after my boys while trying to fit exercise into whatever time I might get. Trail riding is a pure pleasure when given the chance.
I have my Masters in Education in Library Media Science and have been teaching in an elementary classroom or library for the last 19 years. Five years ago, I started a Girls on the Run group at my school and was the head coach for the first three years. This experience has taught me so much about being a coach and how it can be different from being a teacher. I am currently certified in CPR and Non-violent Crisis Intervention. I love sharing my passions of biking and running with others and hope to inspire others to find an enduring, deep-rooted passion as well.
Tracy helps bring a strong women’s presence to the Wheels Up team. You will see her at our Multi-Day Camps and our Weekly Ride When Possible.
Final Words
At the heart of Wheels Up is a simple belief: riding bikes should be safe, fun, and something people can enjoy for a lifetime.
Through coaching, mentoring, and community involvement, we aim to help riders of all ages build confidence, develop skills, and feel comfortable on their bikes. Whether someone is just getting started or continuing to grow their abilities, our goal is to create positive experiences that support learning, enjoyment, and long-term progression.
If you’re looking for a thoughtful, supportive approach to mountain biking—for yourself or your child—we’d love to help you take the next step and keep your Wheels Up and moving forward.