Jamaica Fat Tyre Festival 2010

Jamaica Bicycle Bash
February 7th is the day for Jamaicans to show off their own local riding skills. Dubbed “A celebration of Jamaican Bicycling Culture” the Jamaica Bicycle Bash is designed to provide a unique, fun-filled atmosphere centered around all things bicycle. Highlights will include a 5 mile race looping through Oracabessa, a “Gas Done” gas cylinder carrying race, a “Big Man, Small Bicycle” race and many other games and contests that are sure to provide great entertainment!

Ocho Rios
On February 8 riders will shuttle up to Murphy Hill, perched high above Ocho Rios. After taking in the view it will be time to let brakes overheat on the blistering descent to world reknown Dunn’s River Falls.After regrouping at John Crow’s, the crew heads out to the friendly communities of Oracabessa, Hamilton Mtn, and Jacks River. Checking out SMORBA’s trails in western St. Mary is sure to prepare riders for the after-ride relaxation and the evening’s festivities at “Conscious Corner” bar in Rio Nuevo.

Pimento Hill
The next day riders say goodbye to Ocho Rios and go to Pimento Hill, St. Mary - deep in rural Jamaica. These amazing, technical singletracks (including the famed Carlton Pass) are the trails that led Katrina Strand to proclaim “This is the best day of my life... and it isn’t even over yet!”This epic day will culminate at Charlie’s Beach where SMORBA Trail Guru Natty Grant will have a meal fit for Rastas ready and waiting! Accommodation for the evening will be at River Lodge in nearby Robin’s Bay.

Robin’s Bay
The morning ride takes participants along the rugged coast line featuring mello singletrack and breathtaking views. Ancient Spanish ruins signal the end of the track and the beginning of a 1/4 mile hike to hidden Kwaaman Falls. So hidden in fact, that few Jamaicans have ever heard of - much less been to - this amazing area.Fully refreshed and invigorated, riders will be ready for the next leg of the trip to our Top Secret location in the Blue Mountains.

Blue Mountain
For the first time ever, the Fat Tyre Festival has been given an exclusive invite to ride (and party) at one of the most unique mountain biking locations on the planet. While we have agreed not to disclose the exact location, imagine dropping 2500 feet over 6km of professionally designed singletrack...After recovering from the post-ride party, we will head back to Ocho Rios on February 12, but not before hitting up beers, burritos and the awesome Red Light downhill trail (probably not in that order).

By: Chris Armstrong