On June 25 the WBBC might have to switch bikes to the mountain type and go mountain biking in Annadel State Park! Annadel is slated for closure as part of a $22 million hit to State Parks’ budget, and Bike Monkey is swinging into action for a rescue attempt. Are there monkeys in California? Heck yea.

Santa Rosa-based Bike Monkey is organizing a bike race fundraiser for Annadel to stave off park closure in 2012.

 “These parks have a real value, not only as a refuge from a busy world, but also as economic drivers and environmental hot spots,” says Carlos Perez, owner of Bike Monkey. “We have a lot to lose here, well more than the $22 million that will show on a budget sheet in Sacramento. We hope to reach out to our cycling audience and galvanize their support to keep these vital lands open to a public that needs them.”

The race starts in downtown Santa Rosa, but once in sight of the park, the race goes live and racers dive into some of Northern California’s best single-track trails, on one of three closed 14, 19, and 27 mile courses. At the finish, there will be exhibitions, food and beer, all included in each racer’s registration. The expo is, of course, open to the public! Cash purses are available to pro and single speed racers up to 10 spots deep. If registration sells out, Bike Monkey could give almost $40,000 to State Parks to keep Annadel open!

Go here to find out more about the race and to register. Spread the word!  And thanks Bike Monkey gang.

©Cyndy Shafer, Annadel State Park