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The Inaugural Beech Mountain Metric, a Blood, Sweat and Gears Race, Scheduled for Saturday, May 17

by Madison V. Fisler

May 6, 2014. The inaugural Beech Mountain Metric will be pedaling into Beech Mountain on Saturday, May 17. A classic mountain metric century ride, the Beech Mountain Metric finishes at the top of Beech Mountain with 8,000 feet of climbing.

imgresThe Beech Mountain Metric is a BSG (Blood, Sweat & Gears) event, planned and executed by the businesses and citizens of Beech Mountain. Net proceeds from all BSG events are donated to local charities and public safety agencies in the High Country.

The race will begin at the bottom of Beech Mountain in Banner Elk in front of Morningstar Mini-Storage of Banner Elk. The timed race will officially begin at 8 a.m. Participants have a choice of participating in either the 61 mile loop with 8,000 feet of climbing or the 43 mile run with 5,600 feet of climbing. Both routes finish on top of Beech Mountain.

Athletes are welcome to ride solo, or as part of a team. Teams consisting of five riders will have the three fastest times taken for consideration. Team categories are male, female and co-ed.

Currently, 764 participants are registered for the ride. Registration is $50 for both the 43 mile ride and the 63 mile Metric Century. Registration can be completed online and is available here.

Packet pickup is scheduled for Friday, May 16 from 3-9 p.m. at Ski Beech Alpine Village .Packet pickup is also available on Saturday, May 17 from 6-7:15 a.m. at Beech Mountain Town Hall chambers.

Sponsor for the ride include the Town of Beech Mountain, mPrints, Carmichael Training Systems, Foscoe Rentals, Boone Bike and Touring, Beyond Category Cycling, Magic Cycles, Beechwood, Fred’s General Mercantile, Pinnacle Inn Resort and Almanid Video Productions.