Oconto Falls to host fatbike races

Oconto Falls officials are hoping fatbike enthusiasts will converge on the city Jan. 30 for the first-ever Fatty in the Falls competition.

The race designed for all ages and skill levels utilizes the fatbike trail created three years ago utilizing the Falls Fitness Trail and the perimeter of the River Island Golf Course.

Fatbikes are bicycles with oversized tires designed to allow off-road riding on snow and other unstable terrain.

Event organizers, who include Alderman Devin Wirtz and Kelly Brabant, have planned three race levels — a beginner race of one approximately five-mile lap, a two-lap intermediate race of about nine miles, and a three-lap advanced race of about 13 miles.

The three main races will be followed by a “fun” relay race featuring teams of up to four riders. Events are to be centered at the tubing hill park area.

The Oconto Falls Area Cycling Coalition is staging the event, with proceeds from sponsorships and registrations going to the growing city trails system and the coalition itself.

The group has developed 3.5 miles of wooded trail for summer biking and hiking and winter biking and snowshoeing. An additional three miles of trail are available on the golf course during the winter months.

The City Council on Tuesday was expected to approve the coalition’s application to allow malt beverages at the event. Wirtz said the group will not be selling the beverages, and anyone bringing them will be expected to follow state laws and city ordinances.

Oconto Falls Area Chamber of Commerce President Gail Yatso encouraged members to consider purchasing scholarships ranging from $75 to $500.

“Sponsoring and supporting this event will benefit the local trail system and promote health and wellness through the love of biking,” Yatso said.