The action is set to go down at the legendary Fox Creek trails this weekend. We hit up Inside Line’s Ben Anderson to get the low down on what to expect at what looks to be the biggest dirt event South Australia has seen.
What can riders look forward to out there?
Riders can look forward to racing on the best gravity trails in Fox Creek mountain bike park at the best time of year. Weather is good and the dirt is prime.
The event village will be based out of the Anderson Hill Winery, tell us a bit about the set-up?
Village is at Anderson Hill winery directly next to the top of the park. They have just completed a huge renovation and addition including a restaurant and deck overlooking Fox Creek. The park is one hour from the city and one hour fifteen from the airport.
Run us through the daily schedule of races and events?
Friday: GE Rego and Practice 10-4
Friday evening: Escape Goat night ride
Saturday morning: GE practice
Saturday 1230-430: GE Stages 1-4
Saturday 430: Trailscapes Dual Slalom with Dj Delta
Sunday 9-1: GE Stages 5-8
Sunday 9-12: Head for the hills Double Down coaching clinic
Sunday 130: presentations
So what’s the distance and stage count of the race?
Approx 20km of riding in total per day. 8 race stages over 2 days- 4 Saturday 4 Sunday
And the fast crew, how long will they be racing for?
Approx 20 mins of race time for elite
Entries closed Wednesday, but can we still sign up?
You can enter at village on Friday- $25 late fee
Will shuttles be available for practice sessions?
Private shuttles are allowed. Escape Goat tours also offering shuttles
Are course maps for the enduro available to check out ahead of race day?
Course maps available on MTBA website
What style of timing system will be used?
Timing provided by White Lightning Events with live timing in village
Any unique rules or features for this race?
Full face helmet required
Where abouts to do you recommend riders from out of town look at for accommodation?
Closest accom is at Hahndorf
Is phone reception any good out at the race site?
Phone reception all good
Will food / drink be available on site throughout the 3 days?
Food/drink/beer/wine/water available for all 3 days in village and winery
Anything else people need to know about this exciting event before it all goes off next week?
Troy Brosnan and Conner Fearon both competing and there’s 2 new tracks never before used for national competition….
STAGE MAPS
STAGE INFORMATION
Saturday
Stage 1: Steep
One of Fox Creeks oldest and most loved downhill trails. As the name suggests steep and rocky technical single track with a lung busting sprint to the finish.
Stage 2: Open Wheeler
Starting from the highest point in the park this track is a good mix of fast single track through the pines and off camber straights and corners to the finish.
Stage 3: Muppets
A new edition to Fox Creek this is a purpose built Enduro race track. Get ready for some fast and rough riding through the pines. This track rewards riders who can let go of the brakes.
Stage 4: Long
Another gravity favourite. This track has been used for numerous downhill state championships. Technical flowing single track from top to bottom.
Sunday
Stage 5: Fast
Hold it wide open down this exciting piece of single track and the clock will reward you. Fast and rough with some of the best corners in Fox Creek.
Stage 6: Black Cherry
A hidden gem that has been brought back to life. A short but demanding stage of testing single track.
Stage 7: Patterson’s Curse
Another steep and technical test of bike handling skills. Nail the off camber straights and send the massive step down at the end and look forward to a quick time.
Stage 8: Lone Gum
The Latest trail to be completed in the park and just used for the 2017 state downhill champs. A demanding mix of natural pine sections, gaps, berms, transfers and one of the biggest jump lines on a race track(don’t worry you can roll through them if your a bit tired!)