Single Track Sunday
Event: THE International Intergalactic Global Open Mountain Bike Team Relay Championship of the Multi-Friggin-Verse
Place: Marysville, PA (held on private property- NO riding there except for race)
Ridden: April 2015
Click on video to play
What is the International Intergalactic (IIGO) relay? Put on my Mike Kuhns (The Outdoor Experience Organization), it is a relay race where teams consist of anywhere from one (solo rider) to four riders (can be all male/female or co-ed). All teams get some sort of handicapping points to start the event based on age and racing experience and then each lap completed is worth points. Additionally, since it was Easter weekend, eggs were hidden throughout the course and these were also worth points. The team with the most points at the end of the race gets the perpetual Cup. The handicapping makes winning the race a possibility for every team entered.
Our team, the Giant Superheroes, was handicapped with barely any points. Knowing the odds were against us, Levi, Jamie, Joël, and I went out there to put in fast laps but our main objective was to have fun. As the team name implies, we each dressed as a superhero. Along with costumes; how could one not have fun when the day involved shots of whiskey, beer handups, and a heckle pit complete with a chainsaw wielding crazy person.
Along with all the debauchery of the day, it was a time to catch-up with friends we have not seen since last year. Hanging out the with Saucon Valley Bikes crew, chatting with friends both on and off the course, and finally nice weather added to the enjoyment and fun of the day.
This is an event that we would recommend to everyone. It's a fun day on the bike. Yes, it's a race but it's more about having fun so no pressure. Goofing off is totally allowed (and encouraged). And any race that is sponsored by a beer company, taco restaurant, and ice cream maker is worth attending.
- words by Jess
- video by Joël
