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LIGHTNING PHOTOS: Riders racing for national title at Ride Rock Creek

By Lightning Reports, Published: July 15, 2023

GREEN RIVER — Hundreds of riders and family members from as far away at California, Texas and Vermont raced  on the downhill dirt tracks at the USA Cycling Gravity Mountain Bike National Championship at Ride Rock Creek ending Sunday.

The event attracted mountain enthusiasts racing in catergories ranging from young teenagers to age 40 and up plus dozens of food trucks and bicycle industry vendors. The race is sanctioned by USA Cycling, the Olympic affiliate committee for mountain biking. Made up of seven downhill runs, the mountain bike park is hosting Dual Slalom, a head-to-head race on a gated course; Enduro, a longer ride that covers the whole property; and the Downhill, which features spectacular jumps by the amateur and professional riders.

This year's championship ends on Sunday. Ride Rock Creek has been awarded the event again in July 2024.

Ride Rock Creek founder and owner Dave LaMond said the event had drawn more than 750 riders from more than 40 states, more than 20 national vendors and some 20 local vendors.

Pro Downhill national championship races in 20 categories for men and women are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday with awards at 3:30 p.m. Spectators are advised to bring a lawn chair for seating on a hill overlooking a final jump and finish line.