For local racers, the Emerald Mountain Epic presented by Hard Headed is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of the Steamboat Springs spirit. The event brings together seasoned athletes and enthusiastic newcomers, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
As it is casually known by local racers, the “EME” is a cherished event that has long been a staple in the Steamboat Springs community. This annual mountain bike and trail running race, renowned for its challenging courses and scenic beauty, offers not just a test of endurance but also a profound community experience. Participants and volunteers alike eagerly anticipate this event each year, relishing the camaraderie and the chance to support local causes.
Since its inception as the Steamboat Stinger, the race has been dedicated to giving back to the community. As the event transferred hands from the events team at Honey Stinger to Routt County Riders and Partners for Youth in 2020, the central mission of having a positive impact on the community remained intact. “We’ve been told time and again that our race participants really appreciate that this is a fundraiser more than a for-profit entity,” says Laraine Martin, Executive Director of RCR, “it has more heart this way.” Proceeds from the event support these two vital local organizations.
Routt County Riders plays an essential role in the community by advocating for mountain biking and maintaining the extensive network of trails that are a hallmark of Steamboat Springs. Their work ensures that residents and visitors alike can enjoy safe and sustainable biking experiences, fostering a culture of outdoor activity and environmental stewardship.
Partners For Youth offers crucial support to young people in the area, providing mentoring services that help guide them towards positive life choices and personal growth. By contributing to these organizations, the Emerald Mountain Epic directly enhances the quality of life in Steamboat Springs, reinforcing the event’s deep-rooted connection to the community.
For local racers, the Emerald Mountain Epic is a source of immense pride. The event not only showcases their athletic abilities but also their commitment to supporting their community. Many participants train for months, motivated by the knowledge that their efforts will benefit local causes. The race serves as a platform for local athletes to shine, highlighting the talent and determination that define Steamboat Springs.
The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing such a demanding race is amplified by the collective spirit of the community. Racers often speak of the camaraderie and mutual support that characterize the event, creating lasting bonds among participants. The Epic is more than a personal challenge; it’s a shared experience that strengthens community ties.
This is further expressed by long-time Stinger and EME racer Mindy Mulliken, by saying, “This event showcases some of the most classic ‘backyard’ (yet world-class) trails that we are so fortunate to ride on the daily. The EME allows us to challenge ourselves amongst our community while being supported by our community – this leads to a really high fun factor! In addition, it reminds us not to take these trails for granted – and helps fund the efforts required to continue maintaining and building trails like these into the future.”
Though athletes like Mindy regularly ride long distances, and others have been training for months to be competitive in this race, this year’s introduction of shorter distance options makes the Emerald Mountain Epic more accessible than ever. While space is limited, registration for “The Epic” is still open. In the past, signing up for a race of this nature so close to the event would not seem feasible to most racers. This year, though, the new shorter distance categories allow late registrants and those new to endurance racing to participate without the pressure of extensive training. This inclusivity encourages a wider range of community members to join in, fostering a spirit of participation and inclusiveness.
“After the 2023 edition, we got a lot of athlete feedback about category and distance options. We wanted to appeal to a wider demographic so we introduced the Solo 26 mile lap on the bike, and a 10K on the run”, says Olympia, the race director.
The addition of shorter races also means that more people can experience the joy and sense of achievement that comes from being part of the Epic. It opens the door for individuals of varying fitness levels to contribute to and benefit from the event, reinforcing its role as a unifying force in the community.
The Emerald Mountain Epic is a celebration of everything that makes Steamboat Springs special. It highlights the community’s love for outdoor adventure, its commitment to local causes, and the strong bonds among its residents. The event’s history, charitable focus, and inclusive nature make it a beloved tradition that locals eagerly anticipate each year.
Registration is still open through the morning of August 2nd. Please visit www.emeraldmtnepic.org for more information.