Arizona Endurance Series
The Arizona Endurance Series (AES) consists of a number or grassroots, endurance races and rides. At the beginning of the year, the Antelope Peak Challenge will open the series with some little known singletrack near the town of Oracle. We have another Tucson ride, the Tortilita 50, at the beginning of February. Next up is a ride that includes the famed Ripsey ridgeline. This is a great chance to check out a remote and rarely ridden section of the AZT. In March we will be heading to Red Rock country for the Sedona Big Friggin Loop. Have you ever wanted to explore singletrack in Prescott? Come out to the Prescott Monstercross. We wrap up spring with a ride in the mountains of Flagstaff at the Aspen Asphyxiation. Then we will break until fall. First event of the fall season will be the Tusayan Tussle – up near the Grand Canyon. Then, a new addition to the calendar – Mogollon Mayhem. Next up is a 4 day stage race – Coconino 250 . The year will finish out with the Kentucky Camp, Picketpost Punisher and, Pleasantville.
There are no fees, no prizes, but all attempts will be made to record your finish time in comparison to others. The goal is to finish these challenges while setting your own pace. A start time and route are provided here and it is up to the participant to understand the route, and also have full responsibility for their navigation and well being. These are not group rides, although some people might do these as rides with friends or even other riders they meet at the start, along the route. Since the events are self-supportive, it should be understood that these are for experienced backcountry cyclists only. If you question your ability to complete such an event, it is best that you consider another option before trying one of these. Also, maps, gps devices, water filtration units, and other back country tools are methods to ensure you complete the race. Therefore it is up to you – and you alone – to ensure your safety!! The goal of the Arizona Endurance Series is to promote responsible grassroots endurance mountain biking in Arizona, and to provide a competitive outlet for the state’s current endurance racers – most of whom currently go out of state to compete. The AES will help train current endurance riders and perhaps enhance success by Arizonans in national events. We recommend that you join the Facebook site for all the updates, maps, and questions. So if you have interest, come on out and join us, and do your part to contribute to this grassroots effort! Only 74 participants can do the event, so make sure to sign up on each event page. Also, if you have any questions, you can use the comment section below each event.