2010 Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival
Originally posted on December 26, 2009 at 0:46 am
The 12th annual Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival, which combines fantastic riding with Jamaica’s unique culture, is set for February 6-12th, 2010. That sounds like great way to jump-start the spring riding season, at time when many cyclists in North America will be more than happy to say goodbye to another winter. The Festival is organized by SMORBA, a non-profit organization affiliated to IMBA that is actively engaged in locating, building and maintaining bicycling opportunities on Jamaica’s famed North Coast.
On February 7th the locals will show off their riding skills. Dubbed “A celebration of Jamaican Bicycling Culture†the Jamaica Bicycle Bash is designed to provide a unique, fun-filled atmosphere centered around all things bicycle. Highlights will include a 5-mile race looping through Oracabessa, a “Gas Done†gas cylinder carrying race, a “Big Man, Small Bicycle†race, and many other games and contests that are sure to provide great entertainment!
On February 8th riders will shuttle up to Murphy Hill, high above Ocho Rios. After taking in the view it will be time to let ‘r rip on the blistering descent to world-renown Dunn’s River Falls. After regrouping at John Crow’s, the crew will romp through SMORBA’s trails in western St. Mary. The evening’s festivities will take place at the “Conscious Corner†bar in Rio Nuevo.
The next day riders will head to Pimento Hill, St. Mary, deep in rural Jamaica, to shred some technical singletrack. The after-party will take place at Charlie’s Beach, where SMORBA Trail Guru Natty Grant will have a meal fit for Rastas ready and waiting. Accommodation for the evening will be at River Lodge in nearby Robin’s Bay.
The morning ride on the 10th will take participants along the rugged coast line featuring mellow singletrack and breathtaking views. Ancient Spanish ruins signal the end of the track, and the beginning of a 1/4 mile hike to hidden Kwaaman Falls. The rider’s next leg will take them to a top secret location in the Blue Mountains.
The action on the 11th should prove Irie, mon. For the first time ever, the Fat Tyre Festival has been given an exclusive invitation to ride (and party) at one of the most unique mountain biking locations on the planet. The promoters have agreed not to disclose the exact location, but imagine dropping 2500 feet over 6km of professionally designed singletrack.
After recovering from the post-ride party, participants will head back to Ocho Rios on February 12th, but not before hitting the Red Light downhill trail.
Spaces for this year’s event are limited. If you are interested in attending or need more information, visit www.smorba.com