Southern New England Races

[johnnyt]

I'm looking forward to competing in my first mtb race, but can't find any good listings for southern NE (MA, CT, RI). Any suggestions?

[Big Game]

Go to www.smartcycles.com. hit the racing section. There are a few more races this year.

I believe efta has some races in RI. There website is www.efta.org (?)

Good luck.

[sizlinseagulsoup]

I believe the fall classic in Norwalk is the 15th. The course is pretty flat and fast. If you're a big roadie, you would probably enjoy it.

[johnnyt]

That one looks like fun. Do you know anything about the last race in the series?

[Big Game]

I never have raced the Smashing Pumpkins race, but I've done the Fat Tire Classic this year and last year which are held at the same place, Winding Trails. They vary the courses each year, but usually are the same formula: Wide open x-c ski-trails (only one steep, but short, hill) + a little twisting single track (although not technical) = fast racing. For better or for worse, there are no rocks there.

This course makes for a good first race, as there is a reduced chance you'll wipe out, pinch flat or get a mechanical due to the highly groomed trail system. But if you're looking for something a little more technical, you'd have to wait until next year's Meadow Muffin or Wrath of Sun Valley, as I agree: this is a total roadies' course.


The Norwalk race is just as fast, but a little more technical.

Note that the Fall Classic is Sept. 8th (not the 15th as posted above). See http://www.smartcycles.com/fallclassic.htm

I would second the opinion that Smashing Pumpkins at Winding Trails would be a good first race. Well organized, and a relatively tame course. There is usually a good turnout of brand new and/or casual racers at this location.

Have fun.

[sizlinseagulsoup]

These two events usually do not get as big of a croud as the spring events at the same location. However they are still fun and usually complemented with great weather.