NEWPORT — The bicycle event organization Rasputitsa recently announced they will give the newly created mixed-terrain race, Grateful, to Memphremagog Trails.
Memphremagog Trails is a local nonprofit with a mission to create and promote top-rate cross country ski and mountain bike trails in the area.
The trails are located off the Beebe Spur rail-trail between Derby and Newport.
“We believe in supporting small communities through cycling,” said Anthony Moccia, Co-Founder at Rasputitsa. “Our hope is Grateful will help put Memphremagog Trails on the map and provide a source of income to support the amazing trail network they have created.”
In its inaugural year, Grateful hosted over 300 riders from throughout New England and as far away as Montana, including Vermont Olympian, Lea Davison.
With the recent border opening, projections for the 2022 event are much higher.
Rasputitsa says they will help transition the race by providing marketing support, teaching event organization best practices, and offering general guidance over the next year putting Memphremagog Trails in the optimal position to succeed.
“Memphremagog Trails is both honored and excited to be gifted such an amazing event with so much potential. In working with Rasputista for Grateful 2021, we have been inspired to build from that positive momentum,” a statement issued by the Memphremagog Trails Board reads.
