Prepare yourself for the ultimate test of skill and endurance at Horns Hill Park's inaugural XC mountain bike race, proudly boasting the title of the "hardest XC mountain bike race in North America." This adrenaline-fueled course is strategically designed to push riders to their limits, featuring heart-pounding descents, challenging rock gardens, and soul-crushing ascents. Only the most skilled riders will conquer this punishing terrain, making it a true testament to their mountain biking prowess. The race promises an unparalleled experience, blending the thrill of speed with the challenge of conquering some of the most demanding elements nature has to offer.
Scheduled for Sunday, April 7, with prerides available on Saturday, April 6, participants have the opportunity to acquaint themselves with the demanding course. The event kicks off at 11 am, with various categories tailored to different skill levels. From the elite Cat 1/Expert/Pro/Majorly Idiotic category to the more approachable Cat 3-Mildly Idiotic, there's a challenge for every level of rider. Additionally, an E-Bike race adds an extra layer of excitement to the event, ensuring that participants of varying biking preferences can join in the action.
Situated in Newark, Ohio, Horns Hill Park stands as the state's premier downhill and enduro destination. With a vertical drop of 250 feet, the park offers challenging descents, tabletops, gap jumps, and rock gardens, creating an environment that demands skill, focus, and courage. Even beginners can find their place on the trails, exploring green routes like Greenhorn and Upper Jurassic. It's not just a race; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of mountain biking and challenge your limits.
Beyond the thrill of the race, Horns Hill Park's XC event serves a noble cause. Profits generated will be donated to the Central Ohio Mountain Bike Organization, supporting trail development at Horns Hill Park. This adds a meaningful layer to the event, aligning the exhilaration of the race with a community-driven initiative to enhance and maintain the very trails that make the race possible.
Safety is paramount in this challenging environment. Participants are encouraged to preride the downhills, carefully navigate the course, and, if needed, walk sections that may be beyond their skill set. The recommendation to consider wearing a full-face helmet and pads underscores the serious nature of the course and the importance of rider safety.
Come rain or shine, the event will go on, thanks to the weather-resistant trails at Horns Hill Park. However, in the case of extreme weather, such as heavy rain, high winds, lightning, or tornadoes, a rain date is set for April 14. This ensures that participants can enjoy the race in a safe and secure environment, even in the face of challenging weather conditions.
The excitement doesn't end with the race itself. Following the event, from 11 am to 4 pm, the Nocterra Brewing Beer Garden will be in full swing, offering a perfect setting for post-race celebrations. Beers and hard seltzers will be available for $5 each, with proceeds contributing to trail building and maintenance at Horns Hill. Whether you're a racer or a spectator, this beer garden provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the action trailside.
Cash prizes await those who conquer the punishing course, adding an extra incentive for riders to push themselves to the limit. The podium finishers in each category will receive cash rewards, with first place earning $5, second place also getting $5, and third place receiving $1. Categories may be combined to ensure a competitive podium with at least five racers.
In addition to the cash prizes, participants can contribute to the cause by purchasing event tee shirts, with profits going to COMBO (Central Ohio Mountain Bike Organization). This provides an additional way for the mountain biking community to give back and support the ongoing maintenance and development of trails at Horns Hill Park.
Register now to be part of this historic and thrilling event at Horns Hill Park. It's more than a race; it's an opportunity to challenge yourself, support a meaningful cause, and join a community of passionate mountain biking enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to make history at Horns Hill Park's first XC mountain bike race – where the adventure begins and legends are made.
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