SOUTH FORK— The town of South Fork was unusually busy for this time of year and the reason why was on two wheels. The Shady Burro Enduro hit the scene on Friday, Aug. 11 with hundreds of participants eager to hit the trails north and east of South Fork and has been dubbed one of the best dirt bike courses some have ridden in quite some time. This is the second year for the enduro to come to the area and this year, the riders were invited to stay closer to town, making the experience one to remember for everyone involved.
Enduro coordinator Scott Bright spent several weeks prior to the event in the area with volunteers, working on the designated trails and mapping out specific tests each class of riders would have to complete. Each day featured a new obstacle that took riders up creek beds, down tree-filled hill sides and through tight dirt tracks weaving in and out of forests, fields and meadows. The terrain of the course was both challenging and beautiful for all of the participants who ranged in age from 10 and up.
The race is made to test the endurance of any rider regardless of age or ability. Participants enjoyed the trails located north of town in the Rio Grande Forest between South Fork and Del Norte. Riders traveled anywhere from 50 to 90 miles of trails per day and undergo rigorous tests throughout the race. Each rider that participated had nothing, but good things to say about the trails, the area and the welcoming people in South Fork.
Bright explained in an interview in July that he had wanted to come back to South Fork for some time, after trying to bring the race to the area in previous years. It wasn’t until the cultural scene in both Del Norte and South Fork changed that Bright thought he might have a chance at resurrecting the enduro and has succeeded in bringing the sport back to the area. Residents, property owners and local officials have all changed their tune in allowing this type of event to take place in recent years and welcomed Bright and his crew with open arms.
Having the camping party closer to town was a huge benefit for the South Fork and Del Norte areas this past weekend. Hundreds of people, usually slowing down this time of year, came back with fervor. The roads and shops were as busy as ever as people ventured out in the afternoons after the races ended to get a bite to eat, walk the local shops or just take in the local scenery and culture. Businesses were hopping, and everyone involved was beyond grateful for the boost.
Bright also mentioned in his previous interview that it is one of the main focuses of his group, the Rocky Mountain Enduro Circuit, to benefit the communities where they come to race in every positive way possible. The Shady Burro Enduro was a great success and a huge benefit to the townspeople of the area and will be welcomed back next year for their third event.