Gettysburg Bicycle and Fitness is once again putting on its endurance race series for 2007 in Pennsylvania. The highlight of the three-race monster series will be a different point-to-point 50 mile for each. 15 and 25 mile loops will still be available. Each 50 mile loop will have fully stocked aid stations to give riders opportunities to refuel, rest and regroup, and to promote the "epic ride" aspect of the day.
Gettysburg Bicycle has a reputation for hosting some of the most technically challenging races on the east coast. Over the past ten years, racers have come to expect demanding courses, free camping, the participation of nationally-ranked racers, well-stocked aid stations, and free beer at the finish.
In 2006, top national endurance racers battled for the Monster Series Championships, with the lead changing hands like a hot potato. NUE Series Champion, Harlan Price (Independent Fabrication), 24hr National Champion Chris Eatough (Trek/VW), and rising east coast star Brandon Dragaulis (Cannondale/ Bare Naked) exchanged the top three places although Price eventually emerged victorious at the final race, The Terror of Teaberry.
In a scene where single lap cross country races are becoming rarer, organizers have stuck to their philosophy that mountain biking is about adventure and exploration by offering three different endurance courses in the Michaux State Forest with none of them overlapping. Shop owner, Jes Stith, saw the tide of cross country racing shifting several years ago when he started including a Monster category in addition to the normal beginner, sport and expert classes.
Series races will be held May 6, July 15, and September 16.
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