You Need Endurance to Sit For 1,140 Minutes Straight, On A Bike Seat That Is 24 Hours of Great Glen Challenges Cyclists From Around the Country

Pinkham Notch, NH- Attracting cyclists and spectators from all over the country, the 11th Annual 24 Hours Of Great Glen begins with the roar of the cannon at noon, Saturday, August 12 and concludes at noon on Sunday, August 13, 2006. This unique race challenges the skills of cyclists who loop the diverse 7.5 mile course for 24 hours. Competitors can participate in teams of 2-5, or take on the challenge solo. Over the years, 24 Hours of Great Glen has not only caught the interest of skilled cyclists–and unicyclists–but has seen a swell in spectator support as well.

Once the cannon sounds the official commencement, the race has a ‘Le Mans’ start, where cyclists sprint the perimeter of the Great Glen pond before mounting their mountain bikes. Held at the base of Mt. Washington, the course loop is a combination of Great Glen Trails’ packed gravel trails and the technically challenging single-track trails. The goal of the competition is to complete as many laps as possible, within 24 hours, before the cannon sounds again at noon on Sunday. The team and soloist successfully completing the most laps within the allotted timeframe wins their class.

While the event’s focus is centered around the cycling competition, there are several events and activities to engage the increased spectator support. From utilizing the free outdoor rock wall and kayaks, to entertainment and vendors, supporters are able to make an affair out of the 24 hours.

The first 24 Hours of Great Glen was held in 1996 with only 11 teams. This year, the race expects to register well over 150 teams with more than 450 riders. Many participants from previous years will be returning to tackle the challenge yet again. The 2005 Men’s Pro-Team Winners Chris Gagnon, Daniel Vancourt, Matt O’Keefe and John Fowler will be returning this year to defend their title. They were successful at completing 38 laps within the allotted time and are attempting to surpass that number this year.

Known as an event that challenges riders to push their endurance to the ultimate level, the race has itself endured hurricanes, tropical depressions, droughts and rainfall in record amounts over the years. In 2001, the Great Glen lodge where the event was based burned to the ground in March prior to the race, threatening not only the race but also the business itself. The race was (and still is) based out of a large event tent and a new lodge was built, joining Great Glen with its partner company, the historic Mt. Washington Auto Road.

Registration is open and available online at the event website 24HoursofGreatGlen.com and at BikeReg.com. Online registration is open until August 7th at 11 pm. There will be no race day registration available for participants. Fees are dependent on size of team, ranging from $225-$725. Several bonuses have been included in this year’s registration price for each rider, such as camping fees and an evening meal ticket to enjoy Saturday evening’s BBQ dinner.

There is also a call for volunteers to fill a variety of positions, including timing, registration, course monitors, campground hosts, traffic control, and clean up. Those who would like to get involved are asked to commit to four-hour shifts. In turn, volunteers receive a limited edition event t-shirt, a meal pass and a trail pass, valid for one day of mountain biking or cross country skiing at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center. In addition, volunteers receive a pass for a guided tour or private vehicle up the Mt. Washington Auto Road. Those interested should contact Mary or Amy at (603) 466-3988, for more details.

Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire, is found at the base of Mt. Washington. Offering an abundance of outdoor activities for people at all skill levels, the Center has programs and resources for adventure in every season in the White Mountains. For more information, visit www.GreatGlenTrails.com.