Grand Opening FIRST MOUNTAIN BIKING and BMX TRAIL IN NYC at Highbridge Park

Parks & Recreation along with the New York City Mountain Bike Association (NYCMTB) announced today the opening ceremonies for the first official mountain biking trail in New York City to be held on Saturday, May 19. Highbridge Park’s cross-country, free-ride and dirt jump/BMX trails will be open for riding throughout the day and activities for the entire family will be available.

The day’s activities will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 19. A variety of mountain biking-related activities, including professional jump demonstrations, group rides, an amateur jump jam contest and award ceremony, and free mountain bike service from the master mechanics at Sids Bikes. Activities for the entire family are available and everyone from casual riders to hardcore freeriders are invited.

On Sunday, May 20, Highbridge Park will be host to the first mountain bike race ever in Manhattan- the NYCMTB All-City XC Mountain Bike Race from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Race classes range from first-time racers to pros, with only a $5 entry fee for racers 15-18 years old. Racers of all ages are invited to compete for fun and prizes. Visit http://www.nycmtb.com/ for more details.

The new trail system includes black diamond features, a BMX track, and a challenge trail for younger or newer riders. The project also includes the development and installation of trailhead kiosks, trail markers and interpretive signage, natural resources monitoring, landscaping material to replant denuded areas, trail building tools, and educational pamphlets that advocate safety and environmental stewardship.