Drops + Hoods is the new unique multi-day, multi-surface and multi-distance international series of annual cycling events created from feedback provided by thousands of riders, and augmented with learnings from the global pandemic. Drops + Hoods – Snowy Mountains is the inaugural event of the series and will take place in Thredbo, Jindabyne and Berridale from 2 to 5 December 2021.
The event is organised by Lateral Events, the owners of L’Étape Australia, that put the Snowy Mountains on the map for cyclists since 2016. It is the official legacy event of L’Étape Australia in the Snowy Mountains.
Drops + Hoods has been developed in consultation with local stakeholders, local businesses, and the local community. It is the only event ever to embrace almost the entire region, incorporating events in Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass, Jindabyne, Berridale, Dalgety and everywhere in between. In addition to the greatest rides available in the region, local businesses will come together to create “This is our village”. They will bring night-time entertainment, hospitality, and a warm community welcome.
Florent Malézieux, Head of Sports at Lateral Events, said: “We feel a powerful connection to the local community after four years of L’Étape Australia, so we are thrilled to have Drops + Hoods, the legacy of L’Étape Australia, as a permanent fixture on the calendar. I am looking forward to safely bringing back cyclists and visitors to the region after two difficult winter seasons for the local businesses”.
Drops + Hoods – Snowy Mountains will offer 8 different events across multiple surfaces:
Mountain biking – the Enduro race will take place in Thredbo on Thursday 2 December.
Road riding – Four distances ranging from 56km to 271km will be held on open roads, but as safely escorted rides, to limit the impact on the local traffic. E-bikes are welcome on all distances.
Gravel riding – Drops + Hoods will offer three distances (34km, 75km and 126km), designed to allow for an easy transition from road to gravel.
Travel to regional NSW will be allowed soon and Drops + Hoods – Snowy Mountains could be the first trip for many riders after the lockdown. The event organisers are dedicated to deliver an event that is safe for the participants, the staff and the local community. All registrants are encouraged to get fully vaccinated before the event.
Whether participants wish to make Drops + Hoods a family trip or an adventure with their mates, the event will be safe, fun and exciting. This is the perfect opportunity for them to enjoy a weekend of cycling when restrictions ease, and for local businesses to resume trade after two difficult winter seasons. To learn more about Drops+ Hoodsand to register, visit www.dropsandhoods.com