Mountain bikers ready to blaze trail
By CHRIS MEGGINSON / Sports Editor / Posted: Wednesday, May 28, 2008 4:10 PM CDT
PELHAM - More than 600 mountain bikers will gather Sunday to compete in the 14th annual BUMP and Grind cross country mountain bike race, hosted by the Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedlars at Oak Mountain State Park.
The day begins with registration at 6 a.m., followed by the first race, Junior Olympics, at 8 a.m. The pro events start at 9:30 a.m. for the men and 9:45 a.m. for the women. The sport rider races, which is the largest group according to Naccari, will begin at 9:52 a.m. for the men and 10:12 a.m. for the women.
Mountain bikers start out on the 17.7 mile trail in last year's BUMP and Grind at Oak Mountain State Park. (File Photo)
Spectators gather every year around the most technical spot on the trail at "Blood Rock" or at the start/finish line to cheer on Experts and Pros from Shelby County to Canada. There is no charge other than the park entry fee of $3 for adults, $1 for children 6-11 and senior citizens.
Experts and pros will compete in the 34-mile race, which includes two loops through the park's 17-mile trail.
The sport racers will take one loop around the 17-mile course, while beginners will race a short two-lap course that totals eight miles.
In addition to the major races, there will be a series of races for kids 12 and under known as the Shimano Youth Series, which will cover a 1.3-mile section of the course. Each finisher will receive a medal and free T-shirt. Registration for the youth race is available on-site with a fee of $10. A Training Wheel Division race will be in the paved expo area.
Racers for all races can register at the Expo area on Saturday from 3-7 p.m. or on Sunday beginning at 6 a.m. The entry fee on-site is $40 for adult categories and $20 for 14-under junior olympic riders.
Volunteers are still needed before and during the event.
For more information, visit
BUMP & Grind Racewww.bumpngri ndrace.com or call 800-846-9829.
