10/11/2008

The Jamaican Fat Tire Festival: Another Dreaded Adventure

Words & Photos By Jay Hoots

February is usually a laid back month when I start to consider hitting the gym (once the resolution seekers drop out) and think about getting back in shape after my 2 month season break. So, when I got the call for yet another 'trip of a lifetime' to Jamaica, I was a bit worried that my skills would be off and my gut big and jubbly.

Sensitive Beach moments with Bourdo

However, ready or not, I wasn't about to pass up a trip with my trusty steed (Norco Six) and Pro Mountain Bike rider Robbie Bourdon to check out the Jamaica Fat Tire Festival and film with Cory for another action-filled Ride Guide episode. With sponsors and Tourism Jamaica at the helm, our schedule was set. We had 10 days to get it all done, a tall order even if the weather held sunny and dry.

High level international negotiations

We experienced some tight security entering Jamaica with all of our gear but thanks to our versed Tourism official and our knowledgeable driver we made our way to Ocho Rios tired but smiling.

That’s Mister Cool Kat!

IRIEcycle mon!!!

We hooked up with the folks from the Fat Tire Festival , got 'the goods' on the upcoming events and then planned our next few days (which included trail riding and the Bicycle Bash.) With a boat load of enthusiasm and some sun screen I got my bike built and gear prepped for some dready adventure!

Although the event is not well known, some top pro mtb and enthusiastic riders come together for the The Jamaican Fat Tire Festival (February 5 - 10) with the Bicycle Bash taking place on the 10th. The festival is laid back good times with lots of riding while the snow drops back home. The week full of rides range from XC-based overlanders to shuttled DH but the overall flavour of the festival is a fun, cultural experience all at a price even the most stretched budget can handle.

Ebbet kicking it max flatty

The Bike Bash is a celebration of riding in Jamaica for 'Jamaicans' and we were all stoked to take part. The event marks the last day of the Fat Tire festival and has grown exponentially over the last few years bringing in riders from all over the country! Some kids had ridden nearly 6 hours to get to the event while BMX extreme teams came in from as far as Kingston.

Guess how Stunt boy rolls yo?

Locals arrived riding every type of bike including some solid custom jobs. Activities included everything from a jump shows by McCaul and Ebbet and XC sprint racing, to the 'big man little bike' challenge and Bunny hop madness.

Banging it for 3rd, Go Canada! Photo: Jamie Edmundson

One of my favourites was the 'Rambo' race which required participants to do 4 laps around a running track while each lap picking up cumulative items including a case of beer, a propane tank, and a weed eater. Although the Jamaicans decidedly won the Rambo championships, yours truly 'The White Dread Hope' made podium while the other Canadians made a strong showing in the top 6.

Kingston Crew Represent

Gosh I love Yellow striped shirts

Trail riding in Jamaica is very diversified with the majority of the trails meandering through lush forest and jungle. Fruit trees are everywhere and most trails wind through local towns and villages. Along the routes ancient walls, bridges and aqua ducts from past Spanish and British rule can still be spotted even though it has all mostly been absorbed by the jungle. There are some great hidden downhill tracks and some ball bruising XC rides that get increasingly more technical the wetter it gets all within 1 hour of Ocho Rios. Overall, trails in Jamaica are for everyone and although there may be sections some riders may walk, there aren't many and Jamaica offers riding opportunities for every level of rider.

Tough job riding bikes, huh?

We were very fortunate to have the local bike club (SMORBA) directors available to guide us around the trail systems and communities to film for Ride Guide. John and Andy are very knowledgeable, experienced and completely committed to Jamaica's trails, youth, and community. I wonder where they find the time to ride?

Is it really snowing? Yeah it sucks here too

Jamaicans rely on bicycles for many practical things but it is obvious that they see the recreational side of riding and are passionate about bikes. With more international support and involvement SMORBA and the locals will create fantastic opportunities for the creation and development of more trails and to hopefully attract more riders to experience their fantastic nation.

Ride ON!
Jay Hoots

Have you been to Jamaica? Do you love Jay Hoots? Tell us all about it: HERE!