Clemson Freeride's 4th Annual DH Race
by Brad Collins
Jan 25, 2010
We're at it again! For the 5th consecutive year, Clemson Freeride will play host to yet another DH race on February 27th, 2010. For those of you who have been to our course before, you know what to expect: massive berms, doubles, huge tables, the "cheese wedge" and of course our giant wall ride. Last year's race was a huge success with well over 100 riders turning out.
With prizes for each class as well as one of the lowest entry fees around, why would you not race!? Full details inside,
With prizes for each class as well as one of the lowest entry fees around, why would you not race!? Full details inside,
 |
The race is open to absolutely anyone on any bike so long as it is in a safe working condition. Below we see Noah, probably the most famous racer at the trails! And yes, he hits the wall ride.
 |
As you may have guessed we don't have a whole lot of elevation available to us here in Clemson, so we work with what we got. However, we are fortunate enough to have access to the Clemson Experimental Forest as well as the ability to build sustainable stunts and lines on this land, and for that we are grateful!
If you're skeptic about driving to South Carolina for a DH Race (I know, it sounds weird) I URGE you to check out this video by ZfH Productions:
 |
The race format is pretty simple. You get two timed runs. Your best time will be your overall time. Last year was our first year doing the chainless run and considering it's great popularity you can expect to see that again this year. We do have prizes for everyone that podiums and usually a few things we can throw out to the crowd.
 |
We want to see double the riders this year but we also know the economy is in the tank. For that reason we have kept the race fee to a minimum of $25. That costs way less than the new set of tires you got for Christmas!
Also feel free to check out the Clemson Freeride web page for more pics, vids, and general info! Thanks for checking us out and we hope to see you at the race!
I'll leave you with a few photos for the road:
 |
 |
 |
 |
Link to News Story
Must Read This Week
- 1. Dave Weagle’s SPLIT PIVOT suspension system awarded patent 22860 reads
- 2. What NOT to do at a skatepark 15305 reads
- 3. Pinkbike Previews Life Cyles - Prepare To Be Blown Away! 14846 reads
- 4. DediCam footage - A unique perspective 14003 reads
- 5. A Closer Look At Team Monster Energy - Specialized's 1 x 6 Gearing 13235 reads
- 6. Crankworx Colorado Live on Pinkbike - Update 12549 reads
- 7. Crankworx Colorado Course Walkthrough in Photos 11917 reads
- 8. 2010 Kona Bass Review 11756 reads
81 Comments
- + 1 Show
I wish my University had its own DH course....We have an "experimental forest" too but its too flat for DH
- - 2 Show
looks sick. I really wanna go. whats the beginner class like? Im pretty fast but no wehre near pro. I can hit 6ft drops atleast and probably clear that road gap. would that be unfair to do beginner?
- + 4 Show
You can chose for your self but if your race time is worthy of the class above you we will most likely bump you up automatically... no sandbagging! I would probably recommend the intermediate class. If this is your first DH race then you may be fine to do beginner... because you are just that!
[Reply]
- + 3 Show
I'm thinking about driving down from Pittsburgh to do this race. 2 questions. 1. Judging by the video and previous course times it doesn't look like one would need a full on 8" bike. Could I get away with a 6" bike? 2. Will there be a 4X race also? It looks like there is a 4X course on site.
- + 1 Show
1st question: You are right, a 6 inch bike will usually do just fine. The racers who finish at the top always have a mix of 8inch and 6inch bikes so either will do.
2nd question: What you saw was our dual slalom course and due time constraints and trying to keep this event in one day, we will not be racing it. You're still more than welcome to ride it if you feel the urge!
2nd question: What you saw was our dual slalom course and due time constraints and trying to keep this event in one day, we will not be racing it. You're still more than welcome to ride it if you feel the urge!
- + 1 Show
Here you go man, if you're still headed our way!
COMFORT SUITES
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
COMFORT SUITES
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
- + 1 Show
We really have a great course in Clemson and it is worth the drive. We have been putting a lot of hard work into the trail to get it ready for the race, so come out and see the improvements for yourself. You'll be sorry if you don't.
- + 1 Show
The best bikes are medium travel bikes and if you've got a hardtail, you can smoke this course too. It's such a fun trail that one year I took my wife's 13" $300.00 hardtail and raced pro. Finished right with all my buddies on their 4x and trail bikes in top 20.
- + 2 Show
Note to Pinkbike posters: Include the country and province/state/county in your posts. This is an international site. You may know Wales, UK or South Carolina, US like the back of your hand, some of us don't...
Thanks.
Thanks.
- + 1 Show
Sorry man, you're completely right! I wrote this blog not really sure if it would make it on the homepage. However, I did mention that it was in South Carolina and that it was in the city of Clemson as well as to check out our webpage for directions: www.clemsonfreeride.com.
If you're worried about getting to Clemson, Google it. If your worried about getting to the trail head, send me a message and I'll help ya out. Also, on race day there should be some large poster-signs leading you from the University to the trail parking.
If you're worried about getting to Clemson, Google it. If your worried about getting to the trail head, send me a message and I'll help ya out. Also, on race day there should be some large poster-signs leading you from the University to the trail parking.
- + 2 Show
PINKBIKE mad props! my jaw dropped when i saw this on the main page, great job covering these local races
- + 1 Show
So pumped about this race!
It was sick last year, which means it can only be better this year.
I got the OK from my surgeon to race as long as I have my brace on, I can't wait for that dang thing to finally be shipped!
It was sick last year, which means it can only be better this year.
I got the OK from my surgeon to race as long as I have my brace on, I can't wait for that dang thing to finally be shipped!
- + 2 Show
I am thinking about making the trip as well. if my wife does not give birth by then I am going to be there!
- + 2 Show
I moved to Bellingham, WA for better riding but Clemson, SC is one of the few places I miss over there on the East. Wish I could have made it, that place is awesome. If your driving down from the northeast for the race, you gotta hit up windrock while your there too.
- + 2 Show
I mean... it changes all the time. Right now it is about 55 and a wet from heavy rains yesterday. We are hoping it will be on the dry side but there is no telling. The averages for Clemson on Feb. 27th are: High-60 Low-35. Pulled from weather.com. As far as rain goes... its hit or miss. We hope it misses.
- + 1 Show
We practically have a year long riding season. Its actually more uncomfortable to ride in midsummer than midwinter. Come on down- its a blast even in the rain.
- + 1 Show
I've been to this race 3 times now, and it's definitely not one to miss. The course is not super technical (medium travel is fine), but it's SILLY fun. Like one of the most fun trails I've ever ridden. I'll be there for sure, riding and hopefully shooting some video.
- + 2 Show
Great Race, Fun Course, Good People. I went last year for the first time and will def be heading up again!!!!!!!!
- + 3 Show
If we do you're no longer invited. The invitation will read: CLEMSON FREERIDE SUMMER DH RACE - OPEN INVITATION - NO GAMECOCKS.
But in all reality we will probably not have a summer race. If we do it will not be near as big or have many (any) prizes because we rely on our members to help set things up. Lots of our riders leave Clemson for the summers, thus making it very difficult to organize and run an event.
But in all reality we will probably not have a summer race. If we do it will not be near as big or have many (any) prizes because we rely on our members to help set things up. Lots of our riders leave Clemson for the summers, thus making it very difficult to organize and run an event.
- + 2 Show
Whoop whoop... Clemson race is on the front page.... Can't wait to race. Should be bringing a few buddies with me.
[Reply]
- + 2 Show
holy sh!@ that's awesome...i used to race there in undergrad the 1st year it was built...fun course, great guys!
- + 1 Show
Time wise how long is the course? Also can you only ride at Clemson during races? When will the course be open to practice?
- + 1 Show
The course is about 1:30 - 1:55 in length, depending on your skill level. The course is open to the public year long, but we ask that you not ride when it is wet to prevent damage to the trail. Practice will be held from 8am until 1pm the day of the race, but come out anytime and check it out prior. There should be plenty of people riding that Friday afternoon before the race.
- + 1 Show
The fastest pros make it in just under a minute thirty. The average racer finishes in around 1:40 - 1:50. The Clemson DH course is open at all times of the year. We ask that you respect our trails by not riding when its sloppy wet, not digging without the assistance of someone in the club, and packing out what you pack in. Parking during the winter is a little different (because they close the gates) but not hard to figure out. (We will have the gates open on race day)
The course will be open to practice every day including race day until just before the race begins. Be aware that we are doing course work so you may get there one day and a section of the course might be unridable. Just skip that part and enjoy the rest!
Edit: Damn, Wilson beat me to it...
The course will be open to practice every day including race day until just before the race begins. Be aware that we are doing course work so you may get there one day and a section of the course might be unridable. Just skip that part and enjoy the rest!
Edit: Damn, Wilson beat me to it...
- + 1 Show
There is no camping allowed in the Clemson Experimental Forest; however, I hear that there is camping not too far away. I know that lake Keowee has some spots and I am sure that lake Hartwell should as well... your best bet is probably just do a little google searchin.
- + 1 Show
Will there be any shuttle service and if not how long is the shuttle up to the top of the downhill run?
- + 1 Show
No shuttle service. We are only charing $25 for the race fee so to do shuttles would be a huge loss for our club. Shuttling is technically possible but we do not recommend it. We have a fire road that runs straight back up to the top. No cars are allowed on this trail only bikers (aka hikers carrying bikes). If you were to shuttle it would take about just as long as it would to walk because you have to go way around. Everyone who rides this course walks it and there aren't that many complaints.
- + 1 Show
1) the bluegrass video WAS awesome... what was the name of that song? and 2) I looked at the race results from last year, and I think you should be banned from the beginners category of any DH race if your last name's "Atherton."
- + 1 Show
Pretty sure the "bluegrass" song you're looking for is The Golden Banjo by Phontaine. I believe it was from Roam.
- + 1 Show
I'm not familiar with the Clemson Freeride event, bit this entire thread as well as that vid' just seem damn fun. Which is what it's all about for me! I wonder how long of a trek it'd be from NYC...
- + 1 Show
Dude... you just made my day! That's exactly why I tried to get this posted... trying to get the word out to people who other wise have no clue we exist. BTW, Googled it... NYC to Clemson is right at 12 hours. Bring some friends and make a three day weekend out of it!
- + 1 Show
COMFORT SUITES
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
- + 1 Show
hopefully I can make it i really want to do this race! what exactly is the trail? is there an office or is it just a trail you go on?
- + 1 Show
I am not sure what you're asking... if you mean where is the trail, there are directions on our webpage. There is no "office" or anything of that sort... just park and ride.
- + 1 Show
im stoked. if i make it it will be my first downhill race, which has always ben like a dream...
- + 1 Show
can wait. i have seen the videos and im pumped. i am planning on going up friday and riding some too. the trail looks amazingly funn
- + 1 Show
wow i want to go to this, all my family lives in green ville but i live in northern maine, sucks for me.
- + 1 Show
Man I want to go! Maybe if I can convince my parents about a "Campus Tour" I can. Hehe. Keep on going with with what you guys got going on up there.
- + 1 Show
I was there watching and cheering last year and ran the course slowly for fun. This year I'm excited to actually race the course. Is registration going to be cash, the day of, or is there a website to pay it in advance?
- + 1 Show
25$ cash the day of. Registration starts around 8 and goes to Noon. After 12:00 we will no longer accept any more participants, please get there on time!
Edit: dang it man... beat me to it again... what the heck.
Edit: dang it man... beat me to it again... what the heck.
- + 1 Show
If I show up in SC on Thursday night will the course be open on Friday to ride? Weather here in Pittsburgh is pretty weak right now. I will be fiendin' to ride in 50° temps! Let me know! I'd like to ride all day Friday before the race if possible.
- + 1 Show
Yeah dude! The course will be open all day Friday. Chances are that you will see a lot of us out there doing some last minute work though, so there may be something temporarily closed for a couple of hours tops. We plan to have all the digging done in advance so we don't have to worry about it turning to complete slop.
For those of you making the long drive, I am getting in touch with a Comfort Suites that is about 15-20 minutes from the course. I have a buddy who works there and I'm working on getting a bit of a deal. I will post back after I talk with them tomorrow.
For those of you making the long drive, I am getting in touch with a Comfort Suites that is about 15-20 minutes from the course. I have a buddy who works there and I'm working on getting a bit of a deal. I will post back after I talk with them tomorrow.
- + 1 Show
COMFORT SUITES
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
- + 1 Show
Yeah dude... every day unless it is raining or still soaking wet. If it's that wet we will still race but would prefer people not mess it up before race-day.
- + 1 Show
Hey snackboy, just because my last name is Atherton doesn't mean I have been racing very long 
I'm getting good fast though.
I'm getting good fast though.- + 1 Show
Yes Sir! Spread the word!!!
Call:
COMFORT SUITES
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
Call:
COMFORT SUITES
118 Interstate Boulevard
Anderson, SC 29621
864-622-1200
Mention Clemson Freeride group rate and you will get the room for $69. This also includes the breakfast so its a solid deal! This hotel is in Anderson and about 20 minutes from trail but the drive is very simple.
Post A New Comment
Why was a comment deleted?
1. add additional on topic info to the article that other users will find useful
2. add props and support/encouragement for the video/photo/article/product/story
3. add and explain constructive criticism for the video/photo/article/product/story
1. add additional on topic info to the article that other users will find useful
2. add props and support/encouragement for the video/photo/article/product/story
3. add and explain constructive criticism for the video/photo/article/product/story
*Note: Spam propping comments result in a user ban.