What would we do without trail builders?
Trail building and maintenance work is such a vital yet under appreciated part of our sport. Think of all the countless hours — in the heat of summer and under attack by swarms of mosquitos — spent thanklessly digging, carving, shaping, and raking the very dirt under our tires.
We’re looking to help recognize all the hard work and sweat equity that is poured into the trails we love and too often take for granted. We have a few ideas up our sleeve to help celebrate these unsung heroes in a meaningful way…but we’d love to hear from you!
Please comment below with any thoughts and ideas you may have. One lucky commenter will win a prize pack that includes riding gloves, socks, bottle, top cap, and multitool!
9 comments
Fun signage with the trail name, and builder associated listed below. Crowd source some power tools to make their lives easier when working with wood. Honourary shovel by the trail entrances with the builders’ names drummeled into it.
Recognition for all the hard work should be personal, authentic, and not overly complicated. A recognition event at your venue with a food truck (the 50pesos taco food truck crew are avid mountain and gravel bike enthusiasts) or a one-night craft brew station where you can invite the trail builders and recognize their efforts with “an award” a gift of sorts or simply a fun time together. Advertise and spread the news of the event to bring together local trail riding and running community. Those attending can make a donation to a cause that benefits the local trails or trail building community and part take in the festivities.
Recognition for all the hard work should be personal, authentic, and not overly complicated. A recognition event at your venue with a food truck (the 50pesos taco food truck crew are avid mountain and gravel bike enthusiasts) or a one-night craft brew station where you can invite the trail builders and recognize their efforts with “an award” a gift of sorts or simply a fun time together. Advertise and spread the news of the event to bring together local trail riding and running community. Those attending can make a donation to a cause that benefits the local trails or trail building community and part take in the festivities.
Name a beer after them!
Rocky angels
Flow crew brew
Trail wizards
McLeod IPA
Hoppy IPA
How about a Trail Builder of the year award with a plaque in the shop!