The Duel in the Desert: Two Iconic Races in Fusion

Get ready for the ultimate showdown in the scorching Arizona desert! The cycling universe is about to witness the fusion of two iconic races – the Specialized Cactus Cup and the Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) – in an adrenaline-pumping back-to-back extravaganza named the “Duel in the Desert.” It’s not just a race; it’s a cycling fiesta set against the breathtaking backdrop of the McDowell Mountain Regional Park.

The Essentials:

Dates: March 2 (Belgian Wafer Ride) and March 9 (Cactus Cup 40-mile XC race)
Location: McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Arizona

The Challenge: Queen and King of the Desert Awards

For the bold cyclists aiming to conquer both events, the prestigious Queen and King of the Desert Awards await. This audacious challenge combines the Belgian Wafer Ride’s 72-mile unroad gravel racing with the technical mountain biking excellence of the Cactus Cup’s 40-mile XC race.

The Belgian Waffle Ride: First Event of the Duel

Kicking off the Duel is the Second Annual Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona, a unique desert and mountain gravel experience known as the Hell of the North Desert. It’s the start of the largest gravel series globally, the Belgian Waffle Ride Series, and the Tripel Crown of Gravel. With three different events catering to various skill levels, this promises an unroad experience like no other.

The Specialized Cactus Cup: Second Event of the Duel

The Cactus Cup, a legend in Arizona’s cycling history since 1991, is the second act of this thrilling duel. With three days of racing, including Time Trial, Short Track, XC, and Enduro events, it’s a celebration under the warm desert sun. Participants can choose the one-day option or go all in for the full weekend experience.

McDowell Mountain Regional Park: A Cycling Paradise

Nestled in this cycling paradise, the park offers over 40 miles of pristine desert trails with diverse landscapes. From technical terrains to friendly paths, it’s a haven for cross country, flow trails, and competitive short tracks. Camping options provide a picturesque setting for an unforgettable experience.

Family-Friendly Fun:

This cycling extravaganza isn’t just for the hardcore riders. Families and spectators are in for a treat with a weekend of fun, entertainment, and a beer garden. It’s a cycling spectacle set against the stunning Arizona desert, creating an unforgettable weekend for cycling enthusiasts of all ages.

Rules and Awards:

The Duel in the Desert will crown the fastest cyclists based on the combined time of both events. King/Queen titles will be awarded in each category based on Cactus Cup age groups. Winners will receive specially designed event-branded RaceDay Bags™ from PEDAL Industries.

Join the Fun!

The Duel in the Desert is not just a race; it’s a landmark event uniting two cycling giants for an extraordinary display of athleticism and community spirit. For further details and registration, visit BWR.Bike or TheCactusCup.com.