Just one mile shy of a century, A new mountain bike race in Minnesota, the Lutsen 99er, will take its course along the shores of Lake Superior on Saturday, June 11. The race, organized by Life Time Fitness, aims to promote mountain biking both nationally and in Minnesota.
The crushing 99 mile racecourse starts at Lutsen Mountain’s Bridge Run, then takes participants along the shores of Lake Superior before climbing into the Sawtooth Mountains. Just following the ridgeline, the course takes advantage of glacially-sculpted terrain and rolling hills of the Boreal Forest. Cross the finish line in front of Papa Charlie’s at Lutsen Mountain.A shorter, 39 mile course lets riders participate on a slightly less daunting course. Organizers are encouraging riders to participate on several classes of bikes such as mountain bike, cyclocross, tandem and single speed.
“Our mission is to create an experience that is unique to the state of Minnesota while remaining focused on our goal of continuing to build world-class mountain biking opportunities in North America,” said Kenneth Cooper, vice president of Endurance and Athletic Events for Life Time. “The Lutsen 99er will provide a spectacular backdrop for a great new event series that will automatically draw serious mountain bike competitors to the area.”
Toyota and Lutsen Tofte, a local tourist association, will co0-sponsor the event.
Find out more about Lutsen 99er at the event site.