The Ketchum area will host the 2006 Idaho State Cyclocross Championships this Sunday as part of Sun Valley Company's third annual Oktoberfest activities.
Some 70-80 top competitors from Idaho and elsewhere are expected for the event, which begins at 12 noon at the River Run Day Lodge.
"I've heard rumors that a lot of top riders in North America are coming," said race event organizer Bill Olson, of Sun Valley Road and Dirt Camps.
But participants don't need to wait until Sunday. Cyclocross races will also be held Saturday with registration starting at 11:30 a.m.
Races are scheduled for throughout the afternoons of both days. A highlight will be the Shimano Youth Series races for youngsters 12 and under starting at 1:45 p.m. each day.
Olson said he expects some 40 kids to participate in the Shimano races.
For those unfamiliar with cyclocross racing, it's a form of bicycle racing on a short track over varying types of terrain. Racers are required to quickly dismount and carry their bikes over course obstacles. Races vary in time from about 10 minutes to about 60 minutes.
But cyclocross racing is only part of the fun scheduled for Oktoberfest. The events are free too.
Bavarian food and drink, live bands, face painting and a pumpkin carving contest are some of activities to be enjoyed.
Professional athletes from the bike and ski industries will be on hand to offer pointers.
Discounted Sun Valley season ski passes will be available, and free ski tuning clinics will be held.
There will be raffles and prizes, souvenir beer mugs and great deals on 2007 skis and bindings. Extreme ski movies will be playing both days.
Live music will include an authentic Bavarian band.
There are lots of other things too. For a complete listing of events and times visit www.sunvalley.com.
