11-14-2004, 05:42 PM
[size 2]PIERRE, S.D. – Registration for the 8th Annual Mickelson Trail Trek is now available at the trail’s website, www.MickelsonTrail.com. Game, Fish and Parks officials are encouraging bicyclists to sign up early to ensure a spot in the Trek, which will be held Sept. 16-18, 2005. [/size]
[size 2]According to officials, the 2004 Trail Trek attracted a record 420 bicyclists, a 40 percent increase over attendance in 2003.[/size]
[size 2]"We had hoped to step up the Trek each year," said Harley Noem, Northern Hills regional supervisor for the Division of Parks and Recreation. "In 2003, we set a record with 300 riders, but this year’s attendance shattered that mark by nearly 120. I think this is just the beginning for the Trek. Anticipating another record number in 2005, we are strongly encouraging riders to sign up early because there may be a time when we have to limit the number of riders."[/size]
[size 2]The annual supported ride highlights the George S. Mickelson Trail as it winds through the heart of the Black Hills from Edgemont to Lead/Deadwood. The ride began in 1998 as a celebration of the completion of the rails-to-trails project. The Trek continues today to introduce new bicyclists to the trail and to thank supporters for their long-standing enthusiasm for the trail. [/size]
[size 2]Riders on the Trail Trek will ride 109 miles of the trail over three days, from Friday, Sept. 16 through Sunday, Sept. 18. The $125 registration fee includes the trail pass, shuttle service, commemorative souvenirs, refreshments and some meals during each day's ride. Riders are responsible for accommodations and mechanical support. The ride is open to all bicyclists 14 years of age or older.[/size]
[size 2]Pre-registration is required by Aug. 1, 2005. Registration can be completed online by visiting www.MickelsonTrail.com and by following the "Trail Trek" link. Materials for registering through the mail are available by calling the Black Hills Trails office at (605) 584-3896 or by printing the registration form found on the trail website.[/size]
[size 2]With the holidays fast approaching, Noem added that a Trail Trek registration makes a great holiday gift. "This holiday season, consider registering the bicycling enthusiasts in your family for Trail Trek," he said. "It’s a gift they will never forget and an experience they will take with them always."[/size]
[size 2]For more information on the Mickelson Trail, visit www.MickelsonTrail.com or contact the Black Hills Trails office at (605) 584-3896[/size]
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[size 2]According to officials, the 2004 Trail Trek attracted a record 420 bicyclists, a 40 percent increase over attendance in 2003.[/size]
[size 2]"We had hoped to step up the Trek each year," said Harley Noem, Northern Hills regional supervisor for the Division of Parks and Recreation. "In 2003, we set a record with 300 riders, but this year’s attendance shattered that mark by nearly 120. I think this is just the beginning for the Trek. Anticipating another record number in 2005, we are strongly encouraging riders to sign up early because there may be a time when we have to limit the number of riders."[/size]
[size 2]The annual supported ride highlights the George S. Mickelson Trail as it winds through the heart of the Black Hills from Edgemont to Lead/Deadwood. The ride began in 1998 as a celebration of the completion of the rails-to-trails project. The Trek continues today to introduce new bicyclists to the trail and to thank supporters for their long-standing enthusiasm for the trail. [/size]
[size 2]Riders on the Trail Trek will ride 109 miles of the trail over three days, from Friday, Sept. 16 through Sunday, Sept. 18. The $125 registration fee includes the trail pass, shuttle service, commemorative souvenirs, refreshments and some meals during each day's ride. Riders are responsible for accommodations and mechanical support. The ride is open to all bicyclists 14 years of age or older.[/size]
[size 2]Pre-registration is required by Aug. 1, 2005. Registration can be completed online by visiting www.MickelsonTrail.com and by following the "Trail Trek" link. Materials for registering through the mail are available by calling the Black Hills Trails office at (605) 584-3896 or by printing the registration form found on the trail website.[/size]
[size 2]With the holidays fast approaching, Noem added that a Trail Trek registration makes a great holiday gift. "This holiday season, consider registering the bicycling enthusiasts in your family for Trail Trek," he said. "It’s a gift they will never forget and an experience they will take with them always."[/size]
[size 2]For more information on the Mickelson Trail, visit www.MickelsonTrail.com or contact the Black Hills Trails office at (605) 584-3896[/size]
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