Fat Tire Massive, organisers of the One Communications Mountain Bike Series, have announced that the new season will kick off with a first-ever race on the grounds of Government House.

Rena Lalgie, the Governor, has agreed to open the grounds of Government House on Sunday, November 20, to host the first event of a seven-race series.

“My family and I love cycling, so when the Bermuda Bicycle Association asked if they could hold the first race of the 2022/23 series on the grounds of Government House, the answer was an absolute yes!” said Lalgie. “Cycling – be it road, mountain bike or casual – has both physical and mental health benefits: as well as exercise it is also a good way to de-stress and clear the mind.

“From an environmental point of view, cycling also helps to reduce our carbon footprint and contributes to cleaner, healthier air. All things that I am keen to encourage."

Situated on the 33-acre estate, the Government House property is the largest open green area in Pembroke Parish and while this is not the first sporting event to be hosted on the grounds, it is believed to be the first time a mountain bike race will be held on the property.

“Government House have been welcoming and willing to work with the Fat Tire Massive team to create a unique and fun course,” said Peter Dunne, president of the Bermuda Bicycle Association. “We invite riders and spectators to take advantage of this rare opportunity to experience a morning of great racing through the northern grounds of Government House.”

Gates will open to the public at 8am, while traffic will be permitted to enter Government House from Langton Hill, with a one-way flow exiting on North Shore Road. Participants and spectators are asked to follow race signage and park only in marked designated areas.

Fat Tire Massive volunteers build and maintain sustainable trails Island-wide during the winter mountain bike season. The race is expected to take place on the northern side of the Langton Hill property overlooking North Shore.

“We will use the lay of the land to flush out natural trails suitable for mountain bikes,” said Chris Smith of Fat Tire Massive. “We will work with staff from Government House to create fun trails without damaging the grounds or endemic plants.

“These races are open to riders of all ages and skill levels. We run four adult and three youth categories, from beginners to elite racers, something for everyone.”

The One Communication Fat Tire Massive Mountain Bike Series offers riders of all experience levels a competitive, fun, family-friendly environment to test their skills on Bermuda's trails, with results based on the rider's ability to complete as many laps as possible in their allotted time.

To register or for more information, visit www.fattiremassive.com or e-mail info@fattiremassive.com.