Prickly Pedal, which takes place on the Maricopa Trail, is an annual mountain bike race like none other. The race crosses through the northern section of the Maricopa Trail and is located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. While on the trail beautiful desert views are all around. Challenging terrain and gorgeous sites make for the perfect riding conditions.
The race, which is made up of a 40-mile long trail, will take place on January 21st of 2017. In 2016, almost 300 inaugural riders came from across the valley to participate in the race.
The Prickly Pedal contest prides itself in being more than simply a race. It’s an opportunity to support the development of a 300-mile trail that rings Maricopa County and links many of the area’s regional parks. Proceeds from the race go to support the Maricopa Trail and Park Foundation (MT+PF), which is a non-profit organization striving to provide financial support to the newly constructed Maricopa Regional Trail System.
On race day, racers and volunteers will be able to enjoy a hardy breakfast provided by Hickman’s Egg Ranch. They will receive free entry into the After-Party and Award Ceremonies event from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. The After-Party will include refreshments, a free raffle ticket, a beer garden and live music.
The event has many notable sponsors such as REI, Coca-Cola, Desert Foothills Mountain Bike Association, Cox, Maricopa County and Four Peaks Brewery.
Registration for the event opened on August 1st, 2016. Online registration closes January 18th, 2017 at 9p.m.
Pricing for junior contestant 18-13 years of age now through January 1st, 2017 is $50. Pricing from January 2nd, 2016 through January 18th, 2017 is $60. Adults 19 years of age and older is $80 now through January 1st, 2017 and $90 from January 2nd, 2016 through the 18th of 2017.
