Hill of Truth returns to Haw Ridge on Saturday
The 28th annual Hill of Truth race is set to return to Haw Ridge Park in Oak Ridge on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Hill of Truth Festival, presented by the Clinch Valley Trail Alliance, features a 12-hour mountain-bike race and a Hill of Truth Trot trail-running race.
The mountain-bike race will begin at 9 a.m.
Just after the bike race gets underway, runners will start their race, which follows nearly the same seven- to eight-mile course, with a few alterations for safety.
Riders participating in the mountain-bike race will try to complete as many laps of the course as possible in 12 hours.
There are a lot of ways to approach this, the organizers said.
Some riders compete to win on every lap, while others like to ride until lunch time and call it a day; some race solo, some compete as a four-person team, and other riders just enjoy a few laps with their friends.
And some folks truly love a challenge and race solo on a single speed, while others will casually flip the switch on their e-bike and whiz by other racers on the uphill.
It’s up to the rider, and can be as challenging as they want it to be.
Participants in the trail race may run, walk, or hike.
A free kids’ race will also take place at the Haw Ridge Campground. Check-in for the kids’ race will begin at 1 p.m. Kids will receive prizes.
As the sun sets, guests are welcome to gather around the campfire at the campground for music and perhaps a few tall tales.
This is described as an excellent time to relax and mingle with fellow racers and spectators.
This year’s course is best-suited for riders with intermediate to advanced trail skills. There is a mix of terrain throughout the course.
Because the race will run from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., solid lighting is required for riders for those later hours.
Free primitive camping will be available Friday and Saturday nights at the Haw Ridge Campground.
Registrations are now available online at https://www.hilloftruthfestival.com. Both solo and team categories are available for registration.
The race is limited to 250 riders. Visit www.hilloftruthfestival.com to learn more.