Heck Epic Registration opens tomorrow March 15
2nd edition of the 2-day, 220 mile “bikepacking” stage race between the shores of Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Northern Minnesota - limited to 80 riders
Two Harbors, MN March 14 Organizers Heck of the North Productions, LLC announce registration opens tomorrow March 15 for the second edition of the Heck Epic (August 20/21) - a 2 day, 220 mile “bikepacking” adventure cycling stage race from the shores of Lake Superior to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The Heck Epic is one of only a handful of bikepacking style events in the country… taking place in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.
Starting and finishing just north of Two Harbors, MN, racers will be responsible for carrying, on their bike, what they need to camp for Saturday night in Ely, MN. This is a self-supported event. Participants must rely on their own skill set or the generosity of their fellow riders while traveling. No transport services will be provided for drop out support. No Heck supported aid stations on course.
The course traverses predominantly Gravel and Dirt Roads and trails.
Day 1
On Saturday August 20, riders will depart from Two Harbors on the shores of Lake Superior. From there, they will traverse their way through 100 miles of incredible North Country Gravel & Dirt roads. The first stage will end at “the end of the road,” Ely, Minnesota. Sitting right on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness(BWCA), Ely makes a perfect place to pitch a tent for the night, fill up your tanks and take in the sites on the edge of the wilderness. Your entry fee covers a dinner on Saturday night and breakfast on Sunday morning while in Ely. Camping facilities in Ely and easy access to downtown Ely.
Day 2
On Sunday, August 21, riders will depart from Ely back to Two Harbors. The course will be different and just as if not more challenging than the first day. Expect another epic day of riding back to the shores of Lake Superior. The fastest elapsed time from both days will decide the “winner.” Awards to the fastest Male and Female…and to the Lantern rouge.
Just finishing the Epic will be win enough: lots of woods, miles of beautiful course, and some of the best people in cycling today to share it with!
Musings from the Aptly Named Heck Epic
Want to know what the 2 day adventure is all about?
Last summer, Jonathon Rosenburg from Westchester, New York wrote a blog that was published by event series sponsors Salsa Cycles which you can read here - http://salsacycles.com/culture/one_epic_heck
Itinerary
Mandatory Registration Meeting: Friday, August 19 at 6 pm to 7 pm at Castle Danger Brewery, Two Harbors, MN.
Pick up packets, number bibs, route details.
Fill your Heck Epic pint glass with a pint on the house of Castle Danger Brewery’s finest.
Live music and grill food available at the Brewery.
Costs
$100 from March 15 until August 15 or when the 80 rider limit is met. Heck Epic registration begins March 15, 2016. Capped at 80 riders only and due to sell out in advance.
What's Included?
Dinner on Saturday (Aug 20) and breakfast on Sunday (Aug 21) while in Ely
Camping facilities in Ely and easy access to downtown Ely
Free pint glass filled with the best craft beer in the world, Castle Danger Brewery, at Friday night registration meeting
Awards to the fastest Male and Female…and to the Lantern rouge.
Registration
Click here for registration from March 15 - https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=36890
Click here for the official website - http://www.heckofthenorth.com/heck-epic/
About Heck of the North Productions LLC
Heck of the North Productions are born from the premise that you the rider are ultimately responsible for getting to the finish. No aid stations. No sag wagons. No signs guiding you home. Just your ability to spin miles of forested gravel roads. Just your ability to navigate by cue card, just your strength to see it through to the end. And the opportunity to ride with the greatest people in cycling today!
Heck of the North Productions LLC is proud to be sponsored by the following local businesses; Salsa Cycles, HED Cycling, Taiga Build and Design, Visit Cook County, Cascade Vacation Rental, Bernicks Distributing, Positively 3rd Street Bakery, Castle Danger Brewery, Selle Anatomica Saddles, and Voyageur Brewing Company. This event is in cooperation with and under a special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service, Gunflint Ranger District.
Le Grand du Nord is May 28. 100 and 50 miles gravel courses, Grand Marais MN
The Heck Epic. August 20-21. A two day, 200 mile bikepacking event.
The Heck of the North. October 1st. 100 and 50 mile gravel courses. Premier event.
