Black Hills Fat Tire Festival

Black Hills Fat Tire Festival - 2008

I was not sure I was going to make it back for this year's Festival. But, there were some changes to the structure that made it worth while. That and some encouragement by the Parks Director. The weather forecast was not promising, but I had committed to attending.

Thursday I attended a presentation by IMBA about Ride Centers. Need to check out about possibility that we could make our area, and T.H.O.R. trails as a Ride Center. I feel that we at least need a Skills Area (for beginners to learn basics, like hopping logs, riding beams, negotiating jumps, etc.

The rest of Thursday was dedicated with "Walk & Bike for Life".

Headquarters for the festival was at Founders Park. There, you could register for the festival, sign up for races and tours, and get information. There were several vendors set up at park. Popular was taking a bike out for a spin (test ride).

The weather was not cooperating. Rain and cold most days of the weekend. I signed up for the Mickelsom Trail Ride. (Click on the photo or title below for the photos on the Mickelson Trail Ride).

George S. Mickelson Trail

Friday evening was the Welcoming Social at the Chop House. It was a time to see friends from last year and meet some new friends.

Saturday evening was the viewing of "Seasons", the new film by The Collective". Lots of fast riding, jumps, awesome riding, and crashes.

Sunday dawned bright, clear, and warming. After some confusion over what to ride, we headed out for the Centennial Trail in the area of Pactola Reservoir. (Click on the photo or title below for the photos on the Centennial Trail).

Centennial Trail

Pactola Reservoir Area

There were races: crosscountry, downhill, and hill climb, Throughout the weekend, participants received raffle tickets. The largest number of tickets were awarded for purchaces in the Beer-Muda Triangle (Common Cents, Firehouse Brewing and Gas Light).

The formal festivities ended with the BBQ/picnic, awards and raffle. I did pick up some SWAG in the raffle. Sunday evening was the Film Festival at the Fire House. There were a couple of tours Monday morning. That day was cold and damp, and my legs were sore. I elected to pack up and head home.

Thanks to Jerry Cole, Director of Rapid City Parks & Recreation and his crew (special thanks for our drivers - Amy & Erin), and members of Black Hills Mountain Bike Association (BHMBA) who served as ride leaders (particularly Ed, Brent, Greg, John, Dan, & Dennis - who put up with me).

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