Cyclists set to stampede into season

It's setting up to be just about perfect for the annual Sisters Stampede Mountain Bike Race, which has become Sisters' unofficial kickoff to the summer recreation season.

Hundreds of cyclists of all ability levels and varying competitive spirit descend upon Sisters each Memorial Day weekend for the Sunday race on the Peterson Ridge Trail. This year the weather seems to be cooperating, bringing likely showers to keep the dust down and the trail well-packed a couple of days before the race, then serving up mild conditions perfect for hard riding on the Sunday of the event.

There are various classifications for riders, from elite adult riders down to kids entering their first race, making it a family-friendly event. Many riders make a weekend of it in Sisters, providing a boost to the local economy as it enters the busy tourist season.

Sisters bike shop Blazin Saddles is celebrating eight years in business with their annual Block Party and Sale from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 26. Norco bikes will be providing free demos from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sisters Stampede packet pick-up is available there from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Blazin Saddles is located at 413 W. Hood Ave.