New Mexico's state cross country, mountain cross, downhill and observed trials champions will be crowned at the fourteenth annual Chile Challenge at Angel Fire Resort. The Jalapeno Cross Country kicks off Saturday morning. Angel Fire's XC circuit consists of 70% singletrack and 30% fire road. During each 10 mile lap racers experience a gain of 3000 feet as they climb up to 11,000 feet. Next on the schedule is the Tabasco Trials. After the balancing act, weary XC racers, hopping trials riders and spectators alike can relax on the Chili Deck and enjoy music, beverages and food while watching the mountain cross (Cayenne Cross) competition from above. The Chili Challenge culminates with the Habenero Downhill on Sunday morning. The 1-1/4 mile course has 1500 feet of vert.
The Chili Challenge runs June 15-16. It's the fourth stop in the Mountain States Cup series and the 11th event on the American Mountain Bike Challenge schedule. Angel Fire Resort is on top of an old volcano and the terrain is rocky with many sand sections. Pick your tires wisely. Call Cycle Cyndicate at (303) 432-1519; mtnstatescup.com.
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