Virtual Ride offers Rhode Island Mountain Bikers of all abilities a chance to “laugh like a kid again” Throughout Rhode Island The Rhode Island chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Association (RI NEMBA) is sponsoring a virtual mountain bike fun ride May 1 to June 27. The outdoor and online event boasts a fun photo contest and raffle for all ages and abilities with the goal of increasing awareness of Rhode Island's many wonderful mountain bike trails, raising funds for the local food bank, and boosting NEMBA membership. Riders can choose from several routes per area ranging from easy family friendly routes to challenging technical routes. The event also seeks to highlight areas off the beaten paths: “Our goal is to help get people into areas they may never have gone or have been unsure of the trail network” says Co-organizer Christopher Flanagan. 

Participation in the ride is free with the cost of a new membership, $15 for existing members, and $25 to nonmembers. The ride has an open participation window beginning May 1 and ending June 27. To participate, go to the ride website www.rinemba.org/diy-adventure-ride-2021 and click on “Register”. From there, you will receive a link to mapped trail routes to choose from. Routes vary in length and difficulty from just a few miles to longer technical rides. Prizes will be awarded via a closing ceremony broadcast on Facebook Live on June 30th. Check out www.rinemba for more details. Rhode Island NEMBA’s mission is to create a positive and inclusive mountain biking culture in Rhode Island. We are dedicated to developing and maintaining access to sustainable, environmentally-friendly mountain bike trails, supporting our members, linking communities, supporting local businesses, and promoting the general health of our local population and the protection of open spaces. Visit us online at www.rinemba.org. Press contact: Tabitha Harkin, [email protected]