WinterWest 2013 rolls on this weekend with two exciting events presented by Winter Rush and Central District Cyclery – the Richmond Park 5k and the Fatbike GRR finale race. The second annual Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k Adventure Race will be held Saturday morning, with the first heat starting off at 11 am. Last year, the extreme race attracted over 100 participants. Event organizers are hoping that with the addition of sponsors like Harmony Brewing Company and Striders, and the word-of-mouth promotion from past participants, this year’s event will bring even more competitors to the hills of Richmond Park.
“We were very pleased with the turnout last year, but are definitely looking to get more people out to the park for this year’s race,” commented Nate Phelps, race director and owner of the Central District Cyclery in downtown Grand Rapids. “We’ve adjusted the course to make it a full 5k this year, but we were sure to leave in all of the obstacles participants enjoyed before.”
According to the event’s website, the Richmond Park Winter Rush is “an extreme race designed to incorporate the natural outdoor elements of Richmond Park…both challenging and fun.” A few of the challenges participants can expect include the “Field of Snow Angels”, “Mt. Everest”, and the “Nantucket Sleigh Ride”, capping off the course with a wild sled ride down the famous Richmond Hill to the finish line.
The entry fee for the Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k is $30 for individuals, or $60 for a team of 4-6 members, and participants must register prior to the race. Competitors can register online until Friday, February 1 at 8 pm, or in person the morning of the race. Each participant will receive a commemorative Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k finishing medal, and bragging rights for conquering the mighty Richmond Park.
IF YOU GO:
What: Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k Adventure Race
Where: Richmond Park, 1639 Tamarack Ave NW, Grand Rapids
When: Saturday, February 2, 11:00 am
Who: Three divisions:
Family & Friends – All ages welcome, 4 – 6 team members, team members must all finish at same time.
Adult (14 – 39)
Masters (40+)
The second event of the weekend is the final race of the Fat Bike GRR series. Entry fee for the race is $20, and registration must be completed online before 12:00 pm the day of the race.
Weather permitting, ice skating and sledding will also return to WinterWest this weekend, and the Warming Shelter will be open serving hot chocolate and coffee for park goers.
