Annual Valley Cat Race Takes off from River Prairie

Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Jessica Mahlum | VolumeOne

The annual Valleycat bicycle-based scavenger hunt kicks off its 13th year on Saturday, May 11. Starting at River Prairie Park in Altoona, racers will make their way all over the greater Eau Claire are to participate in challenges, including light physical activities, to collect stamps in their manifestos. The Valleycat coincides with the 2nd Annual River Prairie Festival where onlookers can view the mass roll-out. The event agenda starts with check-in/same day registration, T-shirt collection, and route preparation from 11am-12:30pm. The race begins at 12:45pm and runs until approximately 4-4:30pm. Results are announced at 5pm. Every participant wins a prize, and beer and pizza run freely shortly after. The Valleycat after party includes bike games, bonfires, music, and dancing. When asked what the motivation was behind creating the yearly event, one EC Velo host had this simple answer: "We like bikes!" It's a statement many of us can agree with. "You will no doubt see your community in a new way, and have an adventure you didn't know was possible in your own backyard." annual participant Jeremy Gragert said. Registration is currently open and runs until the day of the event. Proceeds go to Bicycle Chippewa Valley, a nonprofit that works to provide positive cycling experiences for the community. More information can be found by searching for Valleycat 13 or Bike Chippewa Valley on Facebook. 

Valleycat 13 • Saturday, May 11, 11am-10pm • registration begins 11am, race starts 12:45pm, prizes 5pm • River Prairie Park, Altoona • $25 • Facebook

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