Mountain biking at Oleta River State Park in North Miami.

The first race in the Cannondale Coconut Cup mountain biking series was held on Nov. 8 at Oleta River State Park in North Miami. The event doubled as race #5 in the Specialized Florida State Championship series.

According to organizer Dave Berger, “Gusty winds kept the riders cooled off and temperatures were only in the in the mid 80s throughout the day. Big Wheel Cycles was the round sponsor and they went above the call of duty by providing not only over $2,000 in prizes to the medalists but also handing out free food to the participants.”

Berger summarized the results.

“Pro cyclist Tom Danielson of the Garmin Slipstream team showed up in his off season break and raced Florida’s best, although he admits this style course was not his forte. He had a lot fun racing with this very competitive group. Ryan Woodall again showed why he is the man to beat in the FSC series this year and Belinda Williams took home her first win ever in the women’s expert ranks. Congrats to all!”

The Coconunt Cup is being held over the next several weekends throughout southern Florida, including on Dec. 6 at Amelia Earhart Park in Hialeah.

For more info visit GoneRiding.com.