What are the Classes? All races in the series will have the following classes:

• First Timers
• Juniors Open
• Beginners (Under 35)
• Beginners (35+)
• Women Open
• Single Speed Open
• Endurance Class (3+ Hours)
• Sport Open
• Expert Open

Why Should I Try Mountain Bike Racing?
Racing is the quickest way to become a better rider. Racing can put you in the best shape of your life. Plus it is incredibly fun! The sense of accomplishment after finishing a grueling race is unmatched!
How tough is it?
There is a class for every ability and age. For your first race, you’ll be a “First Timer” and your race will last about 45 minutes or less. After that, you can race in the “Beginner” class, among racers of your age and gender for your first season. Later, you can move up to Sport Class, and maybe, someday, “Expert”, the “black belt” of mountain bike racing.
What kind of mountain bike races are there?
All but one of the State Championship Races in Missouri for 2008 are cross country races on Sundays. These races have multiple laps on some of your favorite trails. In addition, in midsummer, there will be 3 Short Track Cross Country (Dirt Crit) Races on Thursday evenings at Castlewood State Park. These races feature short laps, a fast pace, and a set time length. This is a fast-growing part of the sport and a great way to try racing.
What is USA Cycling Mountain?
These races are sanctioned by USA Cycling. You can buy a one day NORBA license for just $5 at the race site or get a season license ($35 for juniors and $45 for adults) there too.
Is mountain bike racing dangerous?
Accidents happen – but no more often than on recreational rides. Don’t ride “over your head”, anticipate the moves of other racers, and be most careful wherever there is vehicle traffic around the race site.
How would I start, and what does it cost?
Check the race schedule on this flyer, and check for updates at www.stlbiking.com. Don’t hesitate to call or email the race organizers. For first timers, the race fee is only $15, plus a $5 one day “USA Cycling” temporary license. Regardless of how well you place, you have a chance at cool drawing prizes.
Is my bike good enough?
If your bike is safe and trail-worthy, it is good enough. If it’s a bucket of loose bolts and has “iffy” brakes, you’re better off asking the race promoters if the bike shop sponsoring the race has any “loaner bikes”.
How should I prepare for my first race?
Make sure your bike is in good mechanical shape and you are in shape for a 45 minute, non-stop hard ride.
What do I need to bring to the race?
-Equipment – Bike, hand pump, basic tools, extra tubes, and water bottles or camelback.
-Clothing – Helmet, sunglasses, jersey, shorts, short-fingered gloves, socks, shoes.
- *Other – Sunscreen, food, cold water and fluid-replacement drinks or mix for after any race (and for during long events).
When should I get to the race and how do I get ready?
-Try to get to the race site about 90 minutes before your start time.
-Find registration and the people there can answer all your questions.
-Warm up on the bike. Many racers stretch for 5 minutes, then ride for about 20 minutes, gradually increasing the pace till they have a light sweat and feel “ready to go”.
What happens at race time? Should I go “all out” as long as I can?
-Arrive at start line five to 10 minutes before the start of the race for instructions.
-Start your race at a fast but sustainable pace. There will be chances to pass as you go along.
-If you have a flat or mechanical problem, get well off the course, and do all repairs yourself with materials you brought with you.
-When you finish, celebrate! You are a mountain bike racer!
-Have a great time meeting other racers, talking about the race, watching the other classes race, and cheering all the racers.