Mountain bike and gravel cyclists are gearing up for the second annual Jackalope Mountain Bike and Gravel Race, happening Sunday, Nov. 16. The course runs through Doña Ana County, beginning in Vado and winding north toward Mesquite and Las Cruces. Online registration opens Saturday, Sept. 6.
Share the Toad Racing invites riders to experience the thrill of racing the local terrain. Riders can complete two laps for an approximate of 54 miles or half of that for 27 miles in the mountain bike race. The gravel race differs with a 24 mile loop but both consist of a high speed, easy ride with soft sand and loose gravel.
Guillermo Alvarez, the Share the Toad Racing race organizer for this event, expressed his appreciation for the optimal conditions of the race.
“Overall, the November weather, location, single track and the gravel roads are great for riders wanting to experience mountain bike or gravel racing for the first time,” Alvarez said.
The Jackalope race is designed with a moderate terrain difficulty, complete with several steep climbs, loose sand and gravel segments and a a few technical segments. It serves as a great first-time race and allows more experienced riders to partake in the longer version for a fast-flowing course.
The area was selected with its accessibility to other trails in mind, such as the Sierra Vista Trail and nearby, lesser-known areas. Share the Toad Racing hopes to increase the number of riders who visit the region, and consequently, increase the appreciation and recreational value of these areas.
“I am very happy with the response of local supporters and the riders in the region,” Alvarez said. “We are looking forward to the future editions of the race and organizing forthcoming events in the city of Las Cruces.”
Podium prizes will be awarded across different categories. Online registration for the event closes on Nov. 14 at 5 p.m.
For additional race information, course maps, fees and registration please click here.
