1st Annual WEAU Mountain Bike Ride

by Darrel J Dixon

For the past several years during the annual WEAU conference in St George, the golf tournament takes up one of the afternoons, usually Friday afternoon. Several of us have opted to enjoy some of the great mountain biking that can be found around the St. George area in lieu of golfing, shopping or sight seeing. During the past few years it has been suggested that we put together a mountain bike ride as an alternate activity to golf. Since I was one of those opening my "big mouth" and making the suggestion, I was volunteered, in good old military fashion, to put together the 1st Annual WEAU Mountain Bike Ride. Hence, the "Ride" was born.

For the first ride, we decided to ride part of the Bear Claw Poppy Trail located just south of Bloomington and Green Valley. The Bear Claw Poppy Trail encompasses a preserve that is only open to bikers and hikers and is set aside to protect the endangered Bear Claw Poppy that grows no other place in the world. The area is full of numerous trails. We selected a route that would provide a challenging ride to most accomplished riders yet would provide an out for those not so accomplished. 

We started out with 15 riders. We weren't sure we would get more than a couple. As it turned out we group of pretty good riders showed up which made for a great day. As we started out Mike Boyle and Mike Lures adhered to the credo that "if you can't keep up, tough!" Luckily, everyone was good enough to pretty much keep up.

The ride lasted about two hours and provided sufficient challenge for everyone. The group rode out toward the features called Clavicle Point, The Acid Drops, and best of all, the Three Fingers of Death. 

What's Coming?

Along the way, the more adventuresome tried to challenge the difficult features of the ride. It was great fun, and very entertaining for those of us who stood and watched. 

See the sign?

With everyone surviving the technical challenges, Three Fingers, etc., everyone finished up by riding the last couple of miles in the "rollers" where grown adults become kids again. To sum it up, it was a great event and everyone made it through the ride in tact. Everyone was exhilarated and got in a great work out as well. I think the consensus from those who participated is to do it again next year, so if your body and mind are willing, come join us. See you next year for the 2nd Annual WEAU Mountain Bike Ride. 

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