I, like many others in the local mountain biking community, find immense joy and satisfaction in the mid-week melee mountain bike races held at Bear Creek Lake Park twice per year from 5 pm on a Wednesday afternoon. This race is unique, being one of the only mountain biking events near Denver that does not require a journey into the mountains or extensive travel. Yet, despite the race's importance to the community, the city of Lakewood has said it is too busy in the park to hold these events in 2025 even with such a late afternoon and midweek schedule. However, horse and trail running events at the park aren't facing the same obstacles. This discrepancy feels unfair, unjust and dismissive of the mountain biking community's needs. 

Data from the Outdoor Industry Association shows that mountain biking is a significant contributor to the local economy, generating millions in outdoor recreation consumer spending every single year. Furthermore, allowing these races to continue will contribute positively to the health, well-being, and social cohesion of our community. We need the city of Lakewood to recognize this and allow the mid-week melee mountain bike races to continue at Bear Creek Lake Park in 2025. Sign this petition to show your support and to demand the fair treatment of all recreational activities within the park.