Riders of all ages and skill levels gather at the Subaru of Spartanburg Bike Park during Jump Jam, the popular afternoon of racing, tricks and family fun hosted by PAL. The event returns Saturday, Oct. 10, from 1–5 p.m. Photo by Melissa Rhine.
There’s something about watching a child line up at the starting line with a bike, helmet and a whole lot of determination that makes for a pretty memorable Saturday.
Jump Jam returns to the Subaru of Spartanburg Bike Park on Saturday, Oct. 10, bringing an afternoon of racing, tricks, competition and family fun to one of Spartanburg’s most unique outdoor recreation spaces.
The event runs from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Subaru of Spartanburg Bike Park, 353 Forest Ave. in Spartanburg. Hosted by PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well., Jump Jam welcomes riders of different ages and experience levels, from little ones on balance bikes to experienced riders taking on the park’s jump lines.
Our family has attended Jump Jam over the last several years, and our kids have participated in the races. For them, there’s a lot to love — the excitement of lining up to race, crossing the finish line and getting their medals, then sticking around to watch the older, more experienced riders take on the bigger features. It’s one of those events that’s just as much fun to watch as it is to participate in.
The bike park itself is located just off the Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail behind Flock Shop and was designed with progressive features that give riders opportunities to start small and work their way up as their skills and confidence grow.
Beginners can explore features including the Flowcoaster, Easy Street and dirt pump track, while more experienced riders can tackle areas such as Straight Rhythm, Back Forty, the Rock Garden and the black-diamond Jump Line. The park also includes a Trick Jump with a cushioned landing, wooden wall ride and 0.4-mile Perimeter Trail.
On Oct. 10, the park opens at 1 p.m. for practice, free riding and on-site registration.
The Wade’s Restaurant Short-Track Races begin with a balance bike race at 2:15 p.m. Racing continues with ages 6 and younger at 2:30 p.m., ages 7-9 at 2:50 p.m. and ages 10-12 at 3:10 p.m. The short, multi-lap races take young cyclists through different areas and features of the park. Registration is $5 for children 12 and younger.
At 3:45 p.m., the action moves to the jump lines for the main Jump Jam competition. Riders ages 13 and older can enter for $15 and compete in Best Whip, Best Trick and Best Style categories, with cash prizes and plenty of bragging rights on the line.
The event isn’t only for riders. Spectator admission is free, making it an easy afternoon outing even if no one in your family plans to compete.
Food options are expected to include Flock Shop, The Fudd Truck and Rigsby’s Food Truck, along with snow cones and coffee from Bike Ride Brew. The Spartan Waste Kids’ Zone will feature free activities, face painting, bounce houses and more.
After the competition, the fun continues with “After Jam” at Ciclops Cyderi & Brewery. A portion of sales will benefit PAL and the bike park.
All riders are required to wear a helmet, although a full-face helmet isn’t required. Riders also need a signed digital waiver. Because weather and trail conditions can affect the park, visitors should check its status before heading out.
Additional event parking will be available along Glendale Road and at the Motivus CrossFit and Ciclops Cyderi parking lots on Union Street. Scholarships are also available for riders who need assistance with registration fees.
Whether your child is ready to race, you want to see what Spartanburg’s more experienced riders can do or you’re simply looking for something different to do as a family, Jump Jam offers a chance to experience the bike park when it’s at its liveliest.
For registration, volunteer information, the complete event schedule and additional details, visit Jump Jam.
