Darkness @ 909 Night Mountain Bike Race

Darkness at 909 is a nighttime mountain bike race hosted in Pleasant Valley, NY. Costumes are strongly encouraged, and there is an award given out to the best one out on the trail. The race is done time trial-style, where riders are sent off at one minute intervals to ride a 7.5-mile course.

This was the second time that I have done this race. And honestly, I don’t know why I haven’t raced this more often. It’s a fun race. I also like the fact that there are categories and age groups. 🙂 And I love the trails at the Taconic-Hereford Multiple Use Area (aka 909). There is a lot of singletrack…fast singletrack that I love. I have always said that riding singletrack is my strong suit.

The first time I raced Darkness @ 909 I had a so-so lighting system. It was a good light but didn’t last long at the power setting that I needed. So, since then I purchased a new system. I bought two Cyclolite Expilion 350 lights on closeout. 350 lumens may not sound like much, but with two, I can direct one ahead on the trail and one a short distance in front of my front wheel. I can see almost everything. I do wish that I had a light on my helmet, so I’ll more than likely try to pick up another Expilion…the price is right.

I finished 2nd place in category and age. I rode strong and mostly clean, and I had a great time. I’m pretty sure I’ll be returning to Darkness @ 909. I should make this race a staple on my schedule.