Big Mountain Enduro promises big backcountry racing
Originally posted on May 13, 2014 at 17:06 pm
Big Mountain Enduro is throwing down the largest-scale enduro this side of the pond September 3-7, 2014 in Crested Butte, Colorado. The inaugural Crested Butte Ultra Enduro will blend high altitude backcountry adventures mixed with most of the biggest descents in the area over five days. Expect to ride some of the most challenging and scenic trails in North America, several of them often ranked as top ten trails in the U.S. The race will challenge riders with five days of racing, four of those deep within the backcountry, with big climbing transitions that will take you to the top of the world overlooking majestic peaks.
Most backcountry stages will start around 9,000 feet in elevation, some days climbing and topping out above 12,500 feet. Organizers anticipate more than 20,000 feet of descending over five days.The fifth and final day of racing will be held at Evolution Bike Park where awards and festivities will culminate.
In the spirit of enduro, course profiles will be given out the week before the event. Exact trail info will be released Tuesday night at the riders’ meeting before racing commences, thus requiring riders to race courses sight unseen. Expect to average 20-25 miles per day with 4,000 – 5,000+ feet of climbing/descending. All shuttles will depart from the same convenient location each day and return riders back to town when applicable.
This special gem of a place tucked deep in the Rockies and surrounded by wildernees, holds the longest running bike festival in the country and is a true mountain town with more miles of singletrack than any other location in the U.S. This event will encompass a heavy pro field and the largest cash payout of any 2014 BME event at $11,000.
This will be a stand alone event and not a part of the Big Mountain Enduro Series overall rankings. Registration for the Crested Butte Ultra Enduro will include five days of enduro racing in the backcountry, organized shuttles each backcountry day, lift ticket on the final day at the Evolution Bike Park, coffee and beer provided each day by our respective sponsors, breakfast and lunch each day, BME apparel kit, an annual subscription to Mountain Flyer Magazine, a large awards ceremony and an adventure experience of a lifetime. Lodging is not included in the entry fee, but BME participants will have substantial discounts tied to our lodging partners. Camping information and lodging packages coming soon. Limited spots available. Register today at www.bigmountainenduro.com.