THE VIBES ARE HIGH AND THE RIDERS WERE CHAMPING AT THE BIT AT THE VERY FIRST STAGE OF THE VERY FIRST GOAT
YACKANDANDAH, VIC, February 24, 2022 – The GOAT welcomed 400 riders on Thursday 24 February to officially kick off the 4-day stage race in Yackandandah.
Let it be said, The GOAT is no ordinary stage race. It combines both gravity and cross country disciplines on the same course.
And today was a gnarly 44.5km, 892 elevation with an endless array of fast flowy single track in the heart of the historic mining town of Yackandandah.
With riders setting off in e-bike, cross country and gravity categories, the cycling was fast and furious with plenty of spills and thrills and gnarly action and fun out on the trails.
The GOAT ambassador and local legend Paul Van Der Ploeg said “the vibes were high out there, plenty of chat and banter being thrown around but people were really leaving it all out on the course.”
Paul added that after chatting to people on the trails, there were folks from Canberra, NSW and TAS who had never been to or ridden the area before. He said “it’s awesome to see events like The GOAT bring people into the region, riding these awesome trails and giving them a taste for just how incredible this area is”.
As for what’s in store for the second stage, Course Director Shannon Rademaker said tomorrow will see “Stage 2 of The GOAT, our queen stage, take to Bright’s Mystic MTB Park, arguably the most famous trail network in the High Country.”
Riders are in for a treat with the 33.2km, 886m elevation course. Rademaker said he’s designed this one to have “the longest climb, the most spectacular views and one of the most technical descents”.
The day will end back at Bright Brewery for an afternoon of live entertainment featuring extreme bike stunt shows, fire spectacular and live music. Come one, come all. There’s something for everyone, not just The GOAT riders. We look forward to seeing everyone down for a beer and chat.