FAQs > Mountain Bike Events > What category should I start in if I have never raced?

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If you have never raced, most riders should select between Intro or Base.

Intro is usually 5-7 miles, a relatively small group of riders that have never raced before (or have done a small number of other Intro races). Intro is FREE if you have never raced before. To claim your free first Intro race, contact us for the discount code!

Base consists of a wider range of ability; some racers spend their entire racing "career" in Base, while others progress and move up to Sport. Base Men is typically 9-14 miles; Women Base is 5-7 miles.

Riders age 18 or younger can race Intro, but are strongly encouraged to race in Junior instead. It is the same length, but consists of all riders 18 or younger.

Last updated on May 14, 2019 by holzhaus