Monuments of Cycling, producer of the Belgian Waffle Ride gravel series, announced it is launching a new 3-day fall event, Blazing Saddles, a unique cycling, music and food festival set to rumble at a ranch in Escondido, California USA 15-17 October 2021. The goal is simple, bring together an eclectic mix of cyclists, food, drink and music unlike anything Southern California has ever seen.

“The festival was conceived during the downtime of Covid, when the riddle was posed: In 2000, if Coachella and Sea Otter Bike Festival had a lovechild, what would it be like today? It will be a festival to showcase Southern California’s thriving cycling, culinary, beer and music scenes and will be presented with an appreciation for bringing the world together again in a beautiful, idyllic and rustic oasis. In addition to 6-, 12- and 24-hour racing for both mountain bikers and gravel riders (for individuals and teams), Blazing Saddles, not unlike Coachella, will incorporate camping options with a seamless, interactive experience for all guests and be the first festival of its kind. We love festivals, but no one has ever brought all these complementary things together in one three-day extravaganza!”

Monuments of Cycling CEO, M. Marckx

To ensure the very best experience, Blazing Saddles has created a team with exceptional talent. David Anderson, cycling chef extraordinaire, has been named Food Director, and will be curating the festival’s vittles including a unique, outdoor dining hall. Jay Isbell (radio and major event producer) has joined the team as Sound Director. Isbell will create a line-up showcasing outstanding local and national musical talent. Michael Marckx, who has vast experience in beer drinking, concerts, and events, will act as Master of Ceremonies and Booze Director. Aging elite amateur road and gravel racer Phil Tinstman will serve as Race Director, guaranteeing an exciting race format and courses for riders of all ages and abilities.

“We are creating an experience you can’t find anywhere else by bringing together the best cycling and San Diego has to offer, in one place, for one weekend, every year hereafter. We love music festivals almost as much as racing our bikes, but we also love camping under the stars, local beer, great food, and being able to enjoy all of the above in comfort, style and convenience. We are producing a festival that creates a community of people who share our love and appreciation for cycling, and who are also looking for an elevated yet rustic festival experience.”

Phil Tinstman, Race Director

Registration opened 4 May and offers what seems like 100 different $200 options depending on how much extravaganza cycling you can handle – gravel, mtb, individual, team or corporate challenges. Registration does not include lodging, camping, food, booze, beer, celebrity selfies or racoon pest management, but does include cycling groupies, cool indie music, vendor fair and nightly movie party – think Rocky Horror Picture Show clad in Lycra.

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