Advertisers Needed
I don’t often post about needing advertisers for Southeastern Cycling. I know marketing budgets are shrinking. Many bike shops and businesses are, rightly, being a bit more conservative with their dollars. I don’t blame them! I’ve been bringing Southeastern Cycling FREE to the Southeast riders, racers, gravel riders, mountain bikers, road racers, those that ride for fun, and everyone since 1996. OMG! Nearly 30 years!
The reality is that I’m not in a situation right now to be able to continue to do so without the generosity of the advertisers. It takes 3-4 yearly advertisers to pay the bills. I have not raised ad rates in OVER 5 years! I’d love to talk to you about the ad rates available. I offer any length to suit your business needs. I welcome ads from all (legal & ok for viewing by kids that visit the site) businesses. Great for bike shops, small businesses, charity rides, races, cycling events, cycling club recruitment, artists, Etsy/Ebay sellers, and more! There is a discount for all ads prepaid for 3 or more months. Contact me today to discuss what you are looking for!
News for 3-25-2025
Support Local Events
From Jason at Chainbuster Racing in response to several events in the SE being cancelled recently
Trish’s Note: I am publishing this in its entirety since it is so important! Posting with permission.
Join Chainbuster in the Fight to Save Local Races
We have received numerous emails and messages related to the potential of us canceling future events.
Here is a brief overview of current industry conditions. It is a tough time to be a race promoter. The cost of putting on an event is at an all-time high while registration numbers are at an all-time low. We are not immune from the reality or the arithmetic of that scenario. But the truth for us is that we’ve never really “made money” from our race series. We’re not unique. No one that we know is getting rich or retiring off race revenue. We’ve always had other vocations and other opportunities that filled the financial deficiencies. For the moment, we still do, but if the need arises for me to return to digging ditches and gluing pipe, I won’t hesitate to do whatever is necessary.
Currently, the numbers for our remaining MTB events are sufficient to avoid cancellation due to low registrations. We made the decision to cancel Rose City Rampage because we had 18 registrants. We understand why. That particular event is far from our typical participation base, and we were the third event in the same area in a three-month period. Market saturation is also a battle that we fight.
What can you do to help?
First, please do whatever is best for your family. The economic situation is tough for so many. We have heard of many who would love to race but can’t afford it. We understand that paying for the wattage coming into your home is far more important than paying for the wattage coming off your cranks. But we also understand that the community associated with Chainbuster events can be therapeutic and critical for getting through tough times. Don’t hang up the bike or the community just because “you can’t afford it.” We’ll do everything we can to help you figure it out. If you are someone who can afford it, contact your local race director to pay for entries that can be gifted to those who have the passion but lack the resources.
The second thing you can do is register early. This isn’t really a new thing. It has always been important. Registering early often has the incentive of a lower price point, but the reason ALL promoters offer this is that it helps with logistics like portable toilets, aid station supplies, meal planning, etc. If you’ve been to any race from any promoter and thought the number of toilets were lacking, it’s likely because they had to be ordered based on registration numbers 3-4 weeks prior to race day. The risk of registering early has also been largely mitigated by liberal transfer policies and, when possible, refunds.
Lastly, please support local promoters. Sure, almost everyone wants a bucket list experience of lining up in a festival environment with thousands of participants, spectators, and vendors. But that’s NOT where the racing experience begins. It starts with the passion and community of grassroots racing. It starts with lining up against your buddies, talking smack that you may or may not be able to back up, and letting the joy of community and camaraderie rule the day. The hug or fist bump at the end means more than any medal ever could. However, if we as a collective cycling community don’t fight to save the local racing scene, the opportunity for that experience will fade away, and all that will remain will be expensive, impersonal corporate experiences.
I spent yesterday looking at my calendar and searching for local events to add to it. I ask that you join me in the fight to save local races. — Jason
News for 3-25-2025
Fox Trail Openings
From FOX XC Trails
The MTB trails at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta will be open to the public on select dates! Minimum $5.00 donation (Suggested $10.00). Please consider donating more. All riders must wear a helmet. All riders must stay on the trail. (No exploring) Course must be ridden in counter clockwise direction, arrow signs will point the way. Course entrance will close promptly at 12noon. All riders must sign a 2025 Waiver. These four openings are fundraisers for the local middle and high school mountain bike teams. Please support them and the youth development organization they participate in, GeorgiaCycling.org. Teams volunteer to open the trails and provide oversight. These are private trails, only open on these select days. Come enjoy our fantastic trails! Dates are April 26, May 10, and May 24. Trish’s note: Great chance to ride trails that are normally closed to the public!
Van Purser Foundation News
From the Van Purser Foundation
We’re back, and we’re gearing up for a fantastic 2025! The new year is already shaping up to be an exciting one, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead. First up, we’re deep into planning for the 2025 All for One event. It’s slated for October 4, and trust us—you won’t want to miss it. We’ve got a new venue, fresh ideas, and plenty of exciting surprises in store to make this year’s event bigger and better than ever.
Beyond the event, we’re continuing our mission to support cyclists facing unexpected hardships. Whether through financial assistance, community outreach, or simply being there when it matters most, we’re committed to carrying on Van’s legacy of generosity and support. Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Your support makes everything we do possible. Stay tuned for updates, get ready for an unforgettable All for One event, and let’s continue making a difference—one ride at a time!
https://vanpurserfoundation.org
News for 3-24-2025
Anniston Chief Ladiga Trail Extension Ribbon Cutting
From the City of Anniston
The City of Anniston, Alabama, invites you to join us on April 24, 2025, as we celebrate a historic milestone—the official ribbon-cutting and grand opening of Anniston’s Chief Ladiga Trail extension! This event will be held in conjunction with Alabama Rails to Trails Month, as part of a statewide celebration of trail connectivity and outdoor recreation. The ceremony will take place on the portion of the trail behind Coldwater Mountain Brewpub at approximately 3:30 PM (CT), following a Rails-to-Trails Ride-In along Anniston’s newest section of the Chief Ladiga Trail.
A Trail with a Legacy In 2022, Anniston took the final step by purchasing the last 1.4 miles needed for completion from Norfolk Southern Railway. Just two years later, in 2024, the Anniston City Council awarded a $7.26 million construction bid to B&B Developers, paving the way for the city’s long-awaited trail extension.
The Final Connection With this new 6.5-mile expansion, the Chief Ladiga Trail will now stretch 39.5 miles, seamlessly linking Anniston’s Multimodal Amtrak Station to the Silver Comet Trail in Georgia. This achievement transforms the corridor into the longest paved pedestrian pathway in the United States—an uninterrupted 105-mile trail experience!
We invite cyclists, walkers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts to join us for this momentous occasion. Come celebrate with us and take part in history as we cut the ribbon on a project that enhances connectivity, recreation, and economic growth in our region! Learn more: https://www.annistonal.gov/chief-ladiga. Link to Invitation: https://tinyurl.com/wsme2ax7.
Jackson County Brevet
The Jackson County Brevet is June 14!
For a 15% discount use code SECYCLING! There is limited time the code can be used, so register today before it expires! Registration is open! Experience the rolling/flat terrain of Jackson County and the endless scenic views throughout the ride. Proceeds donated to THE KELLY WILHITE APLASTIC ANEMIA RESEARCH FUND at Emory University. Every penny that goes to this Fund will go DIRECTLY to clinical research. Choose from 4 different routes!! 29, 46, 65 or 100 miles.
News for 3-20-2025
Race Cancellations
I got word that the Go Nuts race this weekend was cancelled. Skyway Epic on April 5 is also cancelled. Promoters decide to call off races at the last minute for various reasons-severe weather predicted, dangerous conditions beyond their control, logistical problems, low/no entries, and others. I don’t always know why. Please contact the promoter to ask for refund or to transfer your entry to another race if you do not hear from them proactively. Promoters–PLEASE send an email to your participants letting them know as soon as you can about the cancellation AND post it to your social media channels. Racers–CHECK your email AND the race’s social media every day before the race! This is also prudent in case there are last minute time changes, course changes, etc. Good reminders all around.
News for 3-18-2025
Covington Century Discount Code!
It’s not too early to register for our annual Covington Century bike ride. Early packet pick up will be available, stay tuned for the exact details…Ride morning packet pick-up and registration is from 6:30am to 8:00am onsite at Legion Field, 3173 Mill Street NE, Covington 30014. More info is on the way…No Refunds
Save 15% with discount code SEC25! This will expire when online registration closes!
https://www.bikesignup.com/Race/GA/Covington/CovingtonCentury
Silver Comet – Paulding County Tornado
The Silver Comet is closed from mile marker 18-20 in Paulding County. Please do NOT RIDE HERE! Give the county a chance to clear the trees and debris. It is NOT SAFE to ride! Stay away for now! Also stay clear of the Brushy Mountain Tunnel. Conditions are thick mud and very slick. Paulding County Parks and Rec is in the process of cleaning that as well. Just give it a few days. Won’t kill you ride somewhere else or so some out and backs in Cobb County. An EF-1 tornado ripped through Paulding County over the weekend in the violent storms causing damage to homes, businesses, and the Silver Comet Trail.
Hot Springs Gravel Gauntlet
From Southeast Gravel
The Hot Springs Gravel Gauntlet is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see you there! Mark your calendars for March 29th, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of gravel cycling, stunning scenery, and good times with family and friends. This Southeast Gravel event is for cyclists of all levels, with three amazing routes to choose from: 61-mile challenge for the seasoned riders, 28-mile ride for a fun yet challenging day,13-mile route for those just getting into gravel or looking for a laid-back ride.
News for 3-17-2025
Atlanta Cycling Festival is Back!
From ACF
Mark your calendars—the Atlanta Cycling Festival is back May 17-24, bringing a full week of incredible rides, community, and celebration on two wheels! This year, we’re bringing back some crowd favorites, including the Black Coffee Ride, the Intercontinental Cocktail Ride, and the Donut Ride, with some exciting new rides from local bike groups and passionate individuals. But here’s the best part: we want to hear from YOU! If you have a ride idea calling your name, now’s a great chance to bring it to life. We’re currently accepting ride/ event proposals and would love to help you realize your vision! Got an idea? Let’s make it happen! Stay tuned for more details, and get ready to ride!
News for 3-14-2025
Music City Crits Return for 2025
From the Promoter (FB post)
Dust off those bikes! The 11th year of the Music City Crits is RETURNING for the summer of 2025! SAVE THE DATES! April 9th, April 16th, April 23rd, April 30th, May 7th, May 18th – Sunday State Championship Crit, May 21st, June 4th, July 2nd, July 9th.All races to be held at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway. Appreciate the help in making the 2025 series a success!
News for 3-13-2025
With strong storms forecasted for this Sat. several events have been postponed or cancelled.
The Snake
“ATTENTION: Due to the developing forecast of the possibility of high winds, hail or thunderstorms, the second race will be rescheduled to April 5th, 2025. We know that this will upset many people and may create scheduling issues, but we cannot risk injury to racers or volunteers. The local utility company in Dalton is already preparing for the possibility of high winds and downed lines. We took all these issues into account. Please try and make the postponement date. Hopefully, we will have blue skies and dry trails in April. Thank you!”
Barn Quilt Round Up (MTB Atlanta)
“Sadly we are going to have to CANCEL this year’s 2025 Barn Quilt Round Up Ride due to severe weather in the forecast. We thank you so much to all who registered for your support. We will be sending you a full refund for the event. We also want to extend you a free admission to any one of other events this year for the inconvenience which include MTB Atlanta Urban Jam Short Track Race in Newnan on Friday, April 11th, the Brown’s Mill Breakdown 3 Hour Race on Sunday April 13th and the Dirty Sheets Gravel Grinder on Saturday October 11th.Please email Executive Director Brett Davidson with any questions, concerns or if you want a free admission to future events at sorbabrett at gmail.com. We look forward to bringing you this event next year in a new format !!
News for 3-11-2025
Blanket’s Creek Trail Work Party
From SORBA Woodstock
Blanket’s Creek Trail Work Party is this Saturday 9 am-12:15 pm. The Great Spring Spruce Up Cross your fingers this work party isn’t rained out. Meet at the Blankets Creek Clubhouse to get your task and tools. Lunch provided.
News for 3-10-2025
Atlanta Streets Alive is back!
From Atlanta Streets Alive
Atlanta Streets Alive is back this year!
Sunday, April 27 Peachtree St.
Sunday, May 18 Grant Park to West End
Sunday, June 22 Peachtree St.
All events are 2-5 pm.
News for 3-9-2025
Tannehill Ironworks Adaptive MTB Trails
From Singletracks.com
Birmingham has big mountain biking aspirations. The local mountain bike club, the Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP), is currently building the state’s first real “downhill, gravity-inspired” mountain bike trails at Oak Mountain State Park.
But they aren’t stopping there.
Inspired by a presentation at a SORBA conference, BUMP decided to transform their trail system at Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park (“Tannehill” for short) into “the biggest adaptive ride center there is, as far as I know,” according to Chase Draper, President of BUMP.
BUMP had already considered tweaking trails at Oak Mountain State Park to make them more adaptive-friendly, “but you couldn’t piece together a meaningful experience for, you know, 20 or so miles without utilizing fire road,” said Draper. “Then this opportunity came up with this 1,000 acres at Tannehill. So we just wanted to kind of blow it out there. We had this giant blank canvas that we could do whatever we wanted with, and there’s no user interferences out there. There’s no horses or hiking, there’s no argument. There’s just land, and we can develop it how we want.”
On this blank canvas of land at Tannehill, BUMP is creating a purpose-built adaptive trail network while simultaneously working to retrofit the existing trails to work for adaptive mountain bikers.”
Read the full article. Trish’s Note: Very interesting and great stuff!
News for 3-6-2025
Dirty Spokes MTB Race
From Dirty Spokes
Dirty Spokes 6/3 Hour Mountain Bike Race May 3rd, 2025 Fort Yargo State Park, Winder, Ga! Put it on the Calendar! We’re Stoked for the 19th Annual Dirty Spokes 6/3 Hour Mountain Bike Race! The Yargo Trail System is One of the Fastest and Best Trail Systems in the Southeastern US! If You’re Headed Out to Pre-Ride, Check Out the Course Map, GPS Data and Race Course Video Links Below! The Dirty Spokes 6/3 Hour Mountain Bike Race Registration Link Is Updated and Open (See Below)! This is the Series Finale for the Chainbuster Mountain Bike Race Series (7th Race of the Series)!
Tuesday Night Crit
The first Marietta Tuesday Night Crit (TNC) will be Tuesday, March 11. Please bring $5 to help pay for the police officer required by the business park. https://www.mariettatnc.com
News for 3-4-2025
Pedal Hilton Head Island
The Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island will host their 18th annual cycling fundraiser, “Pedal Hilton Head Island”, on Sunday, May 4, 2025. The event is the Club’s second largest annual fundraiser and is expected to raise over $100,000 and draw 700 cyclists, about 50% of which are tourists. All proceeds go directly to support the Club’s mission to serve local youth.
There are five route options for cyclists ranging from beginner (10-miles) to advanced (62-miles). The rides have staged start times on Sunday morning at 7:30 AM. All routes start and finish at Lowcountry Celebration Park. When the ride concludes, registered participants are given a free lunch at a fun and festive post-ride celebration. All registered participants will receive a complimentary Pedal Hilton Head Island 2024 T-Shirt and other goodies provided by generous sponsors.
Pedal Hilton Head Island has partnered with three hotels to provide accommodations discounts for visitors. The town of Hilton Head and local businesses appreciate this welcome bump in hospitality the first weekend in May. For preferred hotels, please visit: www.pedalhhi.org/travel.
Registration fees start as low as $75 with early registration (going on now through February 2). Cyclists may also choose to ride for a specific Club member for $300 called “Pedal 4 A Kid” to give more purpose to their ride. Included with that registration is a limited-edition 2025 cycling jersey. Cyclists will get a photo of the child they are riding for on their back. Registration is at www.pedalhhi.org.
Local businesses are invited to participate by sponsoring the event. Sponsorships start at $250 and go to $7,500 and are an excellent way to promote brands, services, and products while giving back to the community. For sponsorships, please contact co-chairs Russ Whiteford and Andrea Arbore at ride@pedalhhi.org. Follow the Facebook page and Instagram account at @pedalhiltonhead for real-time updates on the event.
Blankets Creek Dirty 15 & 30
From Mountain Goat Adventures
KICK OFF SPRING BREAK AT THE BLANKETS CREEK DIRTY 15 & 30 MILE MTB RACE – MARCH 29, 2025 The course includes most of the trails at Blankets Creek in a counter – clockwise direction for a total distance of 15 miles per lap. Each lap has 1400’+ of elevation gain, so this will be a challenging course. The categories for this event are age based, so that all riders can choose between the 15 mile course (1 lap) and 30 mile course (2 laps). Junior categories available in both race distances. Limit of 250 riders – please register early so you do not miss out. No racing license required for any of our events! Register by March 7th for a $50 Entry Fee and Race Shirt in your preferred size! All riders who register before March 7 will receive one of our super soft and comfy tri-blend event shirts and a commemorative event swag item. Medals and sponsor prizes 3 deep in all categories, podium shirts for all first place finishers. Access to drop bags will be available at the half way point for riders participating in the 30 mile race.
Staggered starts by category for rider/volunteer safety. We are also offering a separate 5 or 10 mile trail run on similar courses in the morning before the bike race! This event is a major fundraiser for SORBA Woodstock, so
News for 3-3-2025
From Spin for Special Ops
The fourth Annual SPIN FOR SPECIAL OPS (SFSO) charity ride will be on Saturday, May 24, 2025. SFSO volunteers are looking forward to hosting cyclists for a great day on the bike with post-ride lunch and festivities. The event will start at 8:15 am at 100 Busch Drive, NE (the Budweiser Plant) in Cartersville, GA. There will be 30, 63 and 100 mile options with SAG, mechanical support, rest stops, and T-shirts.
Participants can also buy raffle tickets for a chance to win a Wahoo bike computer and a MiniMax Big Green Egg. Proceeds from the event will benefit the 501c3 nonprofit “Operation One Voice” (O1V). O1V supports the needs of critically wounded or fallen Special Operations Forces and their families. Early registration discounts are available through March 31st.
News for 2-27-2025
City of Atlanta Ebike Rebate Program Report
From the Atlanta Regional Commission
“A report released today by The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) showed 579 residents redeemed rebates through the City of Atlanta’s E-bike Rebate Program, and that most recipients are riding often and driving less. The program, a first-of-its-kind in metro Atlanta, was funded by a $1 million investment from the Atlanta City Council and was administered by ARC.
The city launched the program last year to remove financial barriers to e-bike ownership, reduce transportation costs, and promote a shift from car-dependent travel. Community outreach was provided by Propel ATL.”
LLS Velo Palmetto
From LLS
Two Wheels, One Goal: a world without blood cancer. Ride with a purpose at Velo Palmetto. Enjoy an unparalleled fundraising competition and elite 3-day cycling experience supporting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Limited to just 50 riders, this exclusive event unites passionate cyclists and changemakers committed to making a lasting impact in the fight against blood cancers.
Event Details: When: October 23-26, 2025 Where: Grand Bohemian Lodge, Greenville, SC Find Out More: LLS Velo Palmetto 2025 – Campaign Submit You Interest Here: LLS Velo Palmetto Interest Form
What’s Included: Curated, fully supported 3-day ride experience through beautiful Greenville, SC, Exclusive 2025 Velo Palmetto jersey and finisher gift, Welcome reception, daily mission programming, and awards dinner celebration, All meals provided—carefully selected to fuel your ride.
News for 2-26-2025
Homegrown Gravel Results
From Cyclingnews.com
“Michael Garrison (MGR p/b NICH SpeedClub) narrowly edged Andrew l’Esperance (Forward Racing) on the uphill sprint to win a second time at the 100-mile Homegrown Gravel Adventure in Franklin, Georgia. Lauren De Crescenzo (Factor-The Feed-Castelli-Maxxis-Wahoo-PERC Coffee) rode solo for 85 miles to repeat as the elite women’s champion on Saturday.” Read the full article.
Alatoona Creek Pump Track Under the Lights
From MTB Atlanta
Check it out! Here’s our rescheduled dates for Cobb County Parks’s Friday Night Lights events and Pitner Bike Park. Join us for pumptrack laps under the lights and sessions on the alpha, bravo and kilo jump lines. We’ll have music and food sponsored by our friends at Free-Flite Bicycles. Register with the QR code below (see post) Don’t miss it.
Dates: March 7 and April 4 6-9 pm. $5 registration fee.
News for 2-24-2025
2025 Mayor’s Ride
From the Bike Roswell
Get ready to ride! Bike Roswell is thrilled to announce the 2025 Mayor’s Ride on Sunday, April 27, 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a fun, community-focused outing, we’ve got a route just for you. Join more than 400 riders as we roll out of City Hall alongside our Roswell Mayor and Council Members!
Choose your Challenge: 18, 42, or 60 miles. What’s in It for You? • Fully Supported Ride: Rest stops stocked with drinks and snacks, plus pre-ride mechanical support. • Free Ride T-Shirt: All registered riders for the 18, 42, and 60-mile routes receive a special t-shirt! • Post-Ride Celebration: Reward yourself with food, beer, and live music at our post-ride luncheon. • Support a Great Cause: Every pedal stroke supports Bike Roswell’s mission to advocate for safer cycling in our community. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate cycling, community, and advocacy. Register today and be part of an event that makes a real difference in Roswell!
News for 2-21-2025
Birmingham Speed Week
From the Promoter
We are pleased to announce Birmingham Speed Week coming this summer! A full week of racing at some awesome venues we typically never get access to. The week includes 2 Mtb events and 5 road events. Races are in conjunction w/ the World Police & Fire Games and the organizations has agreed to let us include amateur events each day.
Schedule:
June 28th – Sprint events – Barber MSP
June 29th – Short Track XC Mtb – Oak Mtn
June 30th – Cross Country Mtb – Oak Mtn
July 1st – Criterium – Talladega Superspeedway
July 2nd – Time Trial – Oak Mtn
July 3rd – Circuit Races – Barber MSP
July 4th – Hill Climb – Smyer Rd (full climb from mall parking lot to church 2.3mi)
We are pumped, these events are legit and ARE happening, we’d love to see the Bham race community get behind this and participate. Barber, Talladega and Smyer Rd are venues we will never get access to race on outside of this event, so don’t miss out! There will be a mix of regional, national and international competition as some riders participating in the games also plan to race in the amateur races too. We are in the process of opening registration and more details will be available in the coming weeks.
Jackson County Brevet
From the Promoter
Registration is open!!!!! Join us for a fun day of cycling and camaraderie. And check out these fresh kits on sale now! Experience the rolling/flat terrain of Jackson County and the endless scenic views throughout the ride. Proceeds donated to THE KELLY WILHITE APLASTIC ANEMIA RESEARCH FUND at Emory University. Every penny that goes to this Fund will go DIRECTLY to clinical research. Choose from 4 different routes!! 29, 46, 65 or 100 miles.
News for 2-18-2025
Raccoon Mountain MTB Trails Closed
From SORBA Chattanooga
Raccoon Mountain is CLOSED to all users from February 17 – May 16, 2025, for major construction and maintenance. No exceptions. We know it’s a favorite, but it’s crucial that we respect the Tennessee Valley Authority‘s request to stay off the property during this time. Please plan ahead and find alternative trails until construction wraps up. We appreciate your cooperation and can’t wait to ride Raccoon again when it reopens on May 17!
Percy Warner Trails in Jeopardy!
From SORBA
Our SORBA Mid TN chapter is fighting to keep the trails at Percy Warner, a well-loved trail system in Nashville, TN, from partial development. A proposed access road to the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens would cut through a corner of the public Percy Warner Park and obliterate the two-mile Hookman Hill trail. To read more about the fight and sign the petition, click here.
About the Project: Anniston’s trail extension will stretch an additional 6.5 miles, bringing the Chief Ladiga Trail’s total length to approximately 39.5 miles. The