Event encourages women to enjoy mountain biking

Women will have an opportunity to enjoy the thrills of mountain biking through a special program at this year's Sisters Mountain Bike Festival, September 24-25.

Jacquie Zanck, Uriel Fox and Lorna Clarke will stage Blazin' Beauties, a special event for women, featuring yoga and mountain bike instruction and riding on the Saturday of the event.

The program starts with a yoga session in the morning, followed by flatland instruction in the basic techniques of mountain biking. After a lunch break, participants will break up into groups based on ability level and hit the trail for a couple of hours.

The program is part of the family-friendly orientation of the festival. Childcare is available through Sisters Park & Recreation District. Alternatively, riders from 7 to 12 years old can participate in their own kids' camp as part of the festival.

The second annual Sisters Mountain Bike Festival gives riders of all abilities a chance to explore and challenge themselves on some of the best trails in the Cascades. Over the course of two days, the festival offers seven different rides - ranging from technical and taxing to a gentle ride in the woods.

Saturday events include the first-ever Bend-to-Sisters Ride, a 35-mile Epic Loop, and a variety of loops on the superb Peterson Ridge Trail.

After riding Saturday, participants can attend the Sisters Fresh Hop Festival and enjoy some of the best brews in the Northwest. On Sunday, there will be shuttles to carry riders to the top of Peterson Ridge for a fun descent and a Poker Ride for prizes.

For more information on all festival events, visit http://www.sistersmountainbikefestival.com.