Mountain bike racing – Plastic flip-flops – Karma – Mountain bike brakes? This December 11, 2010 come on down to see for yourself how plastic flip-flops played a major role in inspiring the creation of a world-class event-the San Juan Howler Mountain Bike Race! And at the same time have fun racing the 18K, 28K or 42K series!
How San Juan Howler Began
It all began with one person, Larry Thraen moved to Nicaragua to help stressed-out people from the industrial countries re-balance their lives in the sun. With fun, sports and yoga – while soaking in Nicaragua’s sweet, peaceful living that the Nicas (as the locals are called) enjoy. Larry, an adventure lifestyle seeker balances dynamic living with yoga and fitness.
the Simplicity… the natural beauty… the warm friendships. Then add freshly picked fruits and produce to grace the dining table. It seemed so idyllic far from the plastic that’s unnaturally molded for mass consumption.
Upon Larry’s arrival – he saw something most surprising. “Brakes on the bikes was virtually un-heard of; they were using their plastic flip-flops” to slow down or stop their two-wheelers. Larry also noted that it was truly amazing! ” I have seen fives kids on an old three-speed bike from the 60′s; they are indeed talented.”[I:http://www.meditationmethods.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SunamitaLim14.jpg]
“Then it struck!” That karmic slap upside the head. “San Juan Howler Mountain Bike Race” birth of a simple idea.
Having Fun While Doing Good – That’s Howler Karma!
Inspired Larry decided “by building a top-notch tourism sports event and a mechanism to support the people in need, we then can support the community that supports us.” Plus “Not only does this help to build the sport of mountain biking in Nicaragua, but it also allows national and international athletes a chance to compete in a growing world-class event.” notes Larry.
The big question is ‘how will he do this’? “Well, the locals rarely have access to bikes and we are trying to attract sponsors who can get involved to possible help bring down a container of bikes and helmets for each event.”
As Larry added “Not only will the bikes be provided for the race – but after the competitors will have the use of transportation to go to town for supplies or go to a job to help feel their families.”
[I:http://www.meditationmethods.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SunamitaLim13.jpg]Harvin winning the bike Tara Walsh donated. Dancesar.com photo
“In an event as this, I want to get more kids involved in a great sport. Having to compete against real professionals for cash prizes or a chance to win a new mountain bike get people stoked to compete.”
“Last year the organization, and the awesome volunteers were praised by many.” He also urges that “It would be great to see more travelers that want to get out of the ‘cold’ and come here for a vacation and open their hearts in support of a deserving cause.” Not to mention the discovery they will enjoy find this little diamond in the rough vacation spot. The Karma developed from this mountain bike racing event has been more then interesting to see evolve.
Author: Discover the mountain bike vacations that whereintheworldareyou.com and Sunamita Lim uncovered in Central America! Indiana Jones could only hope for such a fascinating area for mountain bike adventures. Click on mountain bike action now to discover this unique area.