Words by Michele Charboneau
Photos by Scott McClain
The California Enduro Series kicked off the 2017 season with the sold-out Mammoth Bar Enduro put on by the fine folks at The Hub and Total Body Fitness May 6 in Auburn.
Warm temps and solid sunshine intensified Friday’s pre-ride workout, but Saturday dawned to ideal race conditions with plenty of cool cloud cover.
Early season fitness was crucial for this first round of the series set in the steep American River canyon on trails at Auburn State Recreation Area (ASRA). The event’s 420 racers took on a 16-mile course that included 3,100 feet of ascending and four timed stages on trails comprised of punchy lung-searing climbs and a wide variety of downhill terrain from loose and flowy to rocky and exposed.
Post-race, riders enjoyed complimentary BBQ, pasta, beer, and wine back at the Mammoth Bar OHV park venue. Swapping race stories and comparing schedules for upcoming events, racers soaked in the good vibes while waiting for results … and potentially a spot on the podium in front of that badass wooly mammoth!
View full race results here.
About California Enduro Series
CES is a for riders, by riders non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to promoting world-class enduro events that everyone from amateur to pro can enjoy, at a geographically diverse range of venues. The series is renowned for fostering an exceptional sense of community, and encourages its participants to be involved in its planning.
The series is grateful for the support of VP Components, FOX, Clif Bar, WTB, Canyon, Kali Protectives, Michael David Winery, Cranked Naturals, Kenda Tires, DHaRCO, KMC, Adventure Sports Journal, Gamut, Voler, Mike’s Bikes, ESI Grips, and TrailWorks. Contact CES for information on sponsoring the 2017 series.
Check out the 2017 schedule and learn more about the series at californiaenduroseries.com.