Cyclists with a passion for outdoor adventure will mark their calendars for the return of the Jackalope Mountain Bike & Gravel Race on Nov. 16, as it gears up for its second annual run through the trails of Southern New Mexico. According to the City of Las Cruces, the race offers a dual challenge with a mountain bike route featuring an optional 54-mile journey or a 27-mile sprint, and a separate 24-mile gravel race that will test riders over terrain of loose gravel and sand.
Online registration for the event kicks off before summer's end on Sept. 6, the race will take competitors through the picturesque backdrop of Doña Ana County where it begins in Vado before snaking north toward Mesquite and Las Cruces, Share the Toad Racing stands behind the event, inviting new and veteran cyclists alike to indulge in the excitement of tackling the specific demands this local terrain introduces. As obtained by the City of Las Cruces, race organizer Guillermo Alvarez revealed his satisfaction with the course conditions citing "Overall, the November weather, location, single track and the gravel roads are great for riders wanting to experience mountain bike or gravel racing for the first time," not only underlining the race's accessibility to novices but also its allure for skilled riders who seek a faster and more immersive course.
The race not only beckons with its moderate difficulty terrain and a blend of steep inclines and technical challenges, but also strategically connects to a wider network of regional paths like the Sierra Vista Trail. By drawing cyclists to these routes, Share the Toad Racing aspires to enhance both the recreational value and communal appreciation of Southern NM's landscapes. Alvarez shared his contentment with the local engagement, noting to the City of Las Cruces, "I am very happy with the response of local supporters and the riders in the region," expressing his anticipation for future events as well.
For those riding with a competitive edge, the Jackalope Mountain Bike & Gravel Race will acknowledge their efforts with podium prizes in various categories, ensuring that triumphs of speed and stamina are aptly rewarded, with the window to join online closing at 5 p.m. on Nov. 14. Those who wish to compete, should be swift in their decision to secure a slot in what promises to be a continued celebration of the region’s outdoor sporting spirit.
