Steele Sutton, a former state and Australian cycling champion contributes the success of Moree athletes to a few simple truths.

The people of Moree are quick to back one of their own. When locals see others succeed they jump on board. They ask how things are going, offer support and show pride in their achievements.

"I was often asked how my sporting journey was going at times by total strangers," Sutton said.

"I was supported by a local business in Thomas Lee and believed the community was in my corner."

Sutton, who works as a Chaplain at Moree Secondary College and as a youth worker for the Salvation Army says all these community attributes are once again evident in the newly founded Moree Cycling Project.

Currently the project has 12 young people riding a bike at least once a week and up to four times.

The project has only been active for a few months and Sutton believes the rapid growth is because young people really do want to be active and outdoors with their friends.

"Often they don't have an outlet so they connect through video games online," Sutton said.

"Riding is fun, social, healthy and it makes the kids feel good about themselves. They naturally want to come back for more."

While racing is not the sole focus on the project, five riders competed in their first club race in Tamworth last weekend.

"Those racing had great enthusiasm for the sport and applied themselves to learning the skills required to race," Sutton said.

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The Tamworth race was in preparation for this weekend's Port Macquarie junior tour.

Sutton is confident that the boys are ready to race from a skill level perspective.

"I have absolutely no expectations on performance," he said.

"We have to remember that these kids will be up against the best in the state and possibly the nation and they have only been on a bike for a few months.

"This is 100 per cent about experience for the future and enjoying a trip away with their friends.

"We can talk about winning later," he added with a look that says don't underestimate the spirit of a Moree rider.

Sutton would like to acknowledge the local businesses, organisations and individuals who have supported the project through either finance, resource and skills, including Greg and Rachel Bell at Gwydir Chiropractic and Physiotherapy, Jeremy and Kelly James at Jamesys Mowing and Landscaping Services, Chris Binge and the SHAE academy staff, Moree Services Cycling and Triathlon Club president Michael MacCue and the committee, Jason Poutawa from the Salvation Army and Rob Coventry.

"This team of people have placed us in the wonderful position to ensure that the kids of Moree are having the best chance to enjoy this wonderful sport of cycling," he said.