Welcome to the 2017 Hidden Gem of the North Race, once again hosted on Max Fierek's private trails in Bayfield, WI. This year will be the events third year and we have built some super rad new trail, features, and only have more on the way!
This year a lot of time was spent out building and improving with the help of Brad Miller, Matthew Bailey, Colin Johnson, Rhett Williams, Doran Nurmi, Corbin Ringsred, and Michael Brower. Together we were able to almost double the length of the Dual Slalom, rebuild many of the jumps on Chillasaurusrex, add a new section, and build a brand new trail, "Mach Chicken".
The event lineup has grown from last year. Saturday we're starting the day with downhill practice into racing, leading to dual slalom practice and race followed by awards, a bonfire on Lake Superior and a showing of one of the latest mountain bike movies courtesy of Michael Brower. Enduro practice will be open all day but some sections may be closed during downhill and slalom.
Sunday is straightforward; we have an early morning Enduro practice for anyone unable to make it Saturday. Practice for the final stage is
mandatory. The enduro race starts at 10am and will feature five stages for all categories.
With the Hidden Gem, one of the things we emphasize is that although it is a race, we're all out there to have fun and ride bikes with our buddies. It's a great event to come to whether it's your first race or another in your 2017 circuit.
Payouts? What? Yes! We have $250 up for grabs for first place in downhill and enduro for the Pro/Open Men. From what we can tell we're the highest payout gravity race in the Midwest! Just coming to party? The Island View Bed and Breakfast (Located on-site) has donated an additional $100 cash prize for whoever rocks the best costume in downhill!
So now that you're sold on coming out for the weekend here's the run-down.
Schedule of Events: Friday, September 15thTrail work and course taping – Volunteers needed!
Saturday, September 16th9am – Downhill Practice Opens
1pm – First rider drops for the Downhill Men's Pro/Men's AM/Women's Open
DH awards to follow
5pm Dual Slalom
Bonfire, movie, and hang out after
Enduro Stages open for practice all day. Some sections may be closed during the downhill.
Sunday, September 17thCourse open till 9:30am for early morning practice.
Enduro starts at 10am
Enduro Awards to follow
Pricing:Downhill: $30
Enduro: $20
Dual Slalom: $10
Trifecta (all events): $50
Onsite Camping: Free!
For more info check us out on
Facebook.
The Hidden Gem Bike Park GeoTag on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1617742735222704/
Stoked to be back again this year!