NORBA Nationals Roll Into Town
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Durango, CO Aug. 19, 2004 – For the seventh time, Durango Mountain Resort will host the National Off-Road Bicycle Association’s (NORBA) National Championship Finals August 26-29. Durango and DMR have long played host to some of the most exciting mountain biking races in the country and this year’s competition is sure to deliver.
The Durango NORBA Nationals is the final of the seven race series, and the four-day event includes the main disciplines of Cross Country, Downhill, Short Track and Mountain Cross, as well as two new events: a 60-mile Marathon and the Super D, a combination of Cross Country and Downhill biking.
The NORBA Series provides a unique opportunity for amateur racers to hone their skills while competing against their mountain biking idols. Many of the top mountain bikers in the world compete in the NORBA series, including the three racers competing in the 2005 Summer Olympics in Athens. Homegrown hero Todd Wells raced and trained on the trails in Durango, which lead to a spot on the U.S. Olympic team, along with fellow Coloradan Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski and Californian Mary McConneloug.
Fourteen years ago, Durango hosted the inaugural Mountain Biking World Championships, opening the door for competitive mountain biking. Since then Durango and DMR have been synonymous with the growing sport. The rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains and expansive trail systems continue to lure the best mountain bikers in the country to the area.
Professionals and amateurs of all abilities and ages are invited to compete. Registration information, event schedules and other details are available online at www.durangofinals.com.
Spectators are encouraged to cheer on competitors along the course and in the base area. The four-day event will feature plenty of entertainment for non-racers, including kid’s races, trials, village parties and concerts. Over 27 teams will be on-hand in the expo tent with the latest mountain bike equipment, gear and apparel.
NORBA Passports are available for riders and spectators. Passports provide four days of chair uplifts, two days of parking (Saturday and Sunday), NORBA t-shirt and discounts on food and beer. They cost $20 and can be purchased at Durango Mountain Resort, participating downtown locations and online at www.durangofinals.com when registering for the event.