With 17 wins, two time trial course records and the Tour of the Gila
under his belt this year, he hopes to claim the Mt. Rose season pass at
the top of Relay Peak.

“I know it’s not going to be easy” said Bickel. “It’s been a couple of
years since I got on the mountain bike, and probably 5 since I’ve
raced one. Reno’s got a huge number of talented riders, and I haven’t
adjusted to the altitude yet.”

Chances of winning?

“It depends, mostly on who shows up. Kyle Dixon is a current National
Champion and was really looking strong when we rode together a few
days ago. There are other guys who are part mountain goat too. And I’m
an old guy. I’ll be pretty happy if I can get a Silver Peak down after
the race and don’t have to take oxygen.”

When asked what the key is to a good finish, Bickel recalled his
winning effort at the National MTB Championships several years ago.

“Pacing. Patience. You get all excited and want to drill it right
away. Do that and 10 minutes later you end up sucking air through a
straw or on the side of the trail losing your breakfast. The air just
gets thinner and the trail steeper as you close in on the top. You
gotta keep some gas in the tank”

Post race plans?

“Enjoy the festival, try to talk one of the kids out of a big trout
for dinner that night, then head back to Texas for our road race
championship.”

Register for the Bloody Rose today!

August 24, 2009 —Save the Date: the inaugural Galena Fest 2009 will take place Sunday, September 27, 2009, at Galena Creek Regional Park, Reno, NV; activities get underway at 8 am and include competitive mountain bike races for all ages, The Big Fish Contest for 4-11 year olds, and outdoor activities and fun for all ages. The festival will get underway around 11 AM and will feature live music, BBQ and food, a beer/beverage terrace and competition awards.

What’s sure to be the most talked about and anticipated element of Galena Fest, The Bloody Rose, a grueling, competitive climb starting at the Park and climbing more than 4700’ of vertical over 11 miles, will conclude at the top of Relay Peak, overlooking Lake Tahoe. The overall men’s and women’s finisher will take home a season pass to Mt. Rose Ski. The Bloody Rose starts at 9 AM. The Thorn, a shorter 5 mi. climb from the Park to The Wall at Sky Tavern, will challenge even the toughest. Category winners will enjoy lift tickets at Mt. Rose Ski. Start time is 9:30 AM. Both races are open to ages 14 and over. Early registrants will be timed and will compete for the prizes.

Kids races for those ages 5-13 will feature courses through the Park; helmets required and winners will enjoy hoodies donated by Mt. Rose Ski. Start times vary and begin at 10:30 AM. Registration is required.

Fishing buddies ages 4-11 can enter The Big Fish Contest at Marilyn’s Pond. Registration begins at 10 AM and the Contest runs 11 AM – 1 PM. Cabela’s has donated Rod & Reel sets for contest winners. Donations appreciated.

Outdoor activities abound for all: castle creations at the volleyball pit, apple art at Bear Mat picnic area, and a festival with live music, food vendors and beer/beverage terrace will take place at Eagle Meadow. The Festival is free and open to the public; proceeds from the sale of food and beverages will benefit the Park.

Online registration and more details: http://www.RenoGalenaFest.com

Additional information and media at renogalenafest@gmail.com or 775-253-4560.

Directions: Galena Creek Regional Park – NORTH Entrance: 18350 Mt. Rose Highway, Reno, NV 89511.

For Program Partners and Event Supporters, please visit our website: RenoGalenaFest.com