The Dirt on the
2009 Beech Mountain Triple Crown Downhill Race Series
Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Returns to Beech Mountain Resort with reintroduction of Triple Crown Series!
Banner Elk, N.C. –
Beech Mountain Resort has teamed up with local mountain bike aficionado and professional downhill racer Ryan Taylor to offer three gravity-fed mountain bike racing events in 2009. Together, the team will reintroduce the Beech Mountain Triple Crown Series to attract professional and amateur riders across the Southeast.
Three race dates are set for the 2009 Triple Crown: June 27-28; August 8-9; September 5-6, so mark your calendar now! Competitors will earn points at each event, culminating in series champions in September. Amateur and professional categories will be offered. All racers will compete on a single course descending the full elevation of Beech Mountain. Race entry fees will be $55 for all classes.
Helmets are mandatory for all competitors. Recommended safety equipment for competitors includes, gloves, long pants, long sleeve shirt, leg armour, arm armour and solid running or bike specific shoes.
To find out more information about the 2009 Triple Crown Series contact Ryan Taylor via email at info@triplecrowndh.com or keep visiting here for updates.
Registration:
Pre-registered rider packets and race-day registration will be available at the registration center located in the View Haus of the Ski Village. The View Haus is uphill from the gravel parking area. Saturday registration will be open from 10 am to 2 pm. Sunday registration will be open from 8 to 9 am.
Downhill Track:
The first new downhill track at
Beech Mountain in years is sick! All race categories will race this track. Beginning above the quad chairlift, the track enters the first woods section at speed and maintains momentum before dropping into the second woods section! The classic road crossing offers riders a chance to catch a quick breath before dropping into the third woods section and after navigating some large boulders, riders will be out in the open ski slope. Then sprint and sprint… The fourth and final woods section is tight and technical and exits into a long sprint finish! Fast times are expected to be near 2:30 or so.
Race Classification:
Three categories will be offered for male and female competitors: Pro, Amateur and Beginner. Amateur and Beginner categories will be divided into age groups: 18 and under; 19-34; and 35 +. One-run race format/Pro Qualifying. No license is required to race.
Race Schedule:
Saturday:
- Registration 10 am to 2 pm.
- Rider meeting at the View Haus deck at 9:45.
- Practice 12 am to 3 pm.
- Pro qualifying starts at 3:30.
Sunday:
- Registration 8 to 9 am.
- Rider meeting at the View Haus deck 9 am.
- Practice 9:30 to 11:30 am.
- Race starts at 12 noon.
Directions:
Descend from the town of Beech Mountain 2 miles and turn left into
Beech Mountain Resort. Continue uphill for .3 miles and stay right passing two gravel parking areas. Park in the third gravel parking area. You have arrived!
