It was warm and sunny in the East Texas Piney Woods for the BikeTexas Kids Kup at Greater Houston Off-Road Biking Association’s (GHORBA) annual Big Ring Challenge. The Texas Mountain Bike Racing Association (TMBRA) event was held on the May 2-3 weekend at the Double Lake National Recreation Area in the Sam Houston National Forest, about 60 miles north of downtown Houston.
About 25 kids signed up for the free event, conducted by Bill and Jacque Payne and assisted by BikeTexas staff. After the bike safety briefing from Bill, the youngsters raced around the Kids Kup course on banks of Double Lake. As always, every finisher received a medal and goodie bag.
Kids Kup participants and adults enjoy Texas’ Piney Woods Meanwhile, many adult and Shimano Youth Series participants in the Sunday races spent Saturday afternoon “pre-riding” the eight-mile Double Lake Course to get familiar with course conditions – which were great – and just get some time in the woods. The course is carefully maintained through many volunteer hours by GHORBA members.
Bill explained that the sandy soil of the natural surface trail allows for a quick trail recovery after the frequent rainfalls in the area. Trail erosion has been well managed by keeping the construction of trail gradients (slope) within the limits recommended by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA).
BikeTexas Kids Kup Starting Line The mild slopes and few rocks make the trail great for beginning off-road cyclists. The frequent turns and deep-forest nature of the route make a great trail for beginners and experts alike. The trail is open every day except during special events. A $6 entry fee is the only charge to use the trail, camp and picnic grounds and other facilities at the U.S. Forest Service facility.
The final TMBRA race weekend for Spring 2009 will be held at the X-Bar Ranch near Eldorado on the May 16-17 weekend. Go to the BikeTexas Event Calendar or TMBRA website for details on the X-Bar Kids Kup and other TMBRA race activities.
