In homage to one of my mentors MIKE KUHN (of High Speed Cycling, Outdoor Experience Organization, TSEpic MTB Stage Race, PASCL, PICL, and oh so much more), we are going to lovingly rip off, replicate, and relocate one of his classic events: the International Intergalactic Global Open Mountain Bike Team Relay Championship of the Friggin’ Universe. It’s like we rolled the dice back in 2003 when I went to my first MTB race that he put on (Really Good Training Series race #1), and that spawned a parallel universe. I’ll call that long story short, as far as the backstory goes.
For a little glimpse into #IIGOMTB watch this video he did back in 2014 of the original event:
WHEN: Saturday August 12th, 2023 @ 10am
WHERE: Sweetwater Farm Trail Center (990 Lightstone Lane, Sugar Grove WV 26815)
WHAT: This is a 1-4 person team relay on a short loop (~2.5 mile) loop where riders on a team exchange each and every lap until 4 hours is up. This race is about accumulated laps. Here is the twist, teams start the race with a handicap based on individuals’ normal race category. If you are a beginner racer, you’ll start with 2 laps. If you are a sport racer, you’ll start with 1 lap. If you are an expert racer, you won’t start with any laps. Race hard, score laps, and see where your team gets. First across the line with the most laps wins. This race is for fun, sportsmanship, and a hard effort. Costumes encouraged.
REGISTRATION: For 2023, we’ll be opening up the event to 50 racers…..whether you race in solo, 2 person, 3 person, or 4 person. Register on Bikereg.com and all racers get access to the Farm all weekend. Free primitive camping. Entry is $25/Person.
OTHER: Friday potluck dinner. Bring a dish to share if you care. Ride at 5. Food at 8pm. Simplify your weekend and add on a lasagna feast on Saturday for $15. Group Rides Sunday.
Trail Labs 