Grateful

Grateful (An XC Race)

Welcome Back!  For the 4th year in a row, Grateful returns to the Northeast Kingdom, but this time we've traded in the skinny tires and drop bars for knobs and plush suspension!  XC mountain bike racing is in and Grateful is excited to offer a simplified and streamlined event for all ability levels.  Leave your gravel bike at home (or maybe bring it…heck it would be one hell of a challenge); this is a new kind of challenge!

So what is different about Grateful?  First off, Grateful is now officially a race.  That means prizes; don't expect anything crazy, but you will walk home with more than bragging rights.  

This year the entire event will be hosted at Memphremagog Trails.  Covering a variety of trails, the 10-plus mile course will offer familiar trails from past years (yes all the downhills), but will also mix in old-school singletrack.  There are some spots where your bars won't even fit.  Think 90's throwback days!  

At registration, riders will have a choice: Race 1 lap (10 plus miles, 1400ish of elevation), Race 2 laps (20 miles, over 2000 ft of elevation), or Ride 1 lap at ‘party pace.’  Each option is intended for riders to find the challenge that fits their ability and comfort!  Choose your challenge!

So what is the same about Grateful?  We are still grounded by our core principles, “No Podium, No Prejudice, No Pressure.”  Despite this being marketed as an event with prizes, we will continue to foster an environment of inclusivity. We firmly believe everyone belongs on a bike and aim to offer access for that to happen.  If this is your first race, this is the event for you.  If you are a seasoned rider looking for a fun challenge, this is also the event for you.  Starts will still be spaced out to remove the dangers and anxiety of a mass start. Riders are expected to act respectfully and gracefully while on the trails. Overall, Grateful is meant to bring us all closer together.

Grateful is also excited to partner with some amazing community organizations and charities.  As leaders in this corner of the Northeast Kingdom, it is important to give back.  All proceeds from Grateful will once again go directly back to organizations that foster mental health awareness and wellness.  Your impact in participation will extend well beyond just race day!

What Else?  Stick around after the ride for more fun!  Other activities for the entire family to enjoy throughout the day include food trucks, music, our pump track, and guided rides for all abilities. Louis Garneau swag will be on hand for ALL participants to take home, be sure to stock up until next year!