Seattle on the Fringe : Seattle Entertainment, Activities, Events : Seattle on the Fringe by Stacey Merrick : Music, Dancing, Clubs, Bars, Movies, Burlesque, Dining, Bicycle, Hobbies, Extreme Sports, Comedy, Offbeat, Unusual

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It's the time of year again to fix up your mutant bicycle (or regular bicycle) and ride it at the 13th annual Dead Baby Downhill Race this Friday, August 1.  Claiming to be the "greatest party known to humankind," the event is more than a bicycle race, it's an amazingly fun party.

Last year's turnout was about 1600 people, some of whom traveled from far away lands like Canada.  This year  over 2000 people are expected to partake in the merriment that is northwest mutant bicycle culture.  Fortunately for a crowd fearing gal like myself, there will be plenty of space for the crowds so I won't have to be crammed up against a wall all night trying to avoid the sweaty masses of people.  But enough about my social anxiety disorder, let's get to the details of the race.


FAQs about the Downhill

Do you have to be a bicycle person to attend this event?
Nope.  You don't even need a bike to attend the party at the end of the ride in Ballard.

Is this an actual race or is it a party? 
It's a race AND a party.  The winner of the race gets an assortment of cool prizes and, of course, glory.  The race ends in Ballard where there will be events like tall bike jousting, bands on three stages, bicycle dance performances, and other bicycle related events.  The race is also a fun ride for those who don't care about winning the race.  Last year I stayed to the back of the crowd and cruised at a nice, mellow pace with my friends.

What time does registration and the race begin?  Where?
Registration is between 5-6:45pm and costs $20.  With the registration fee you get a t-shirt and a water bottle and a chance to race or just cruise down the hill to Ballard.  Registration ends promptly at 6:45 and the race begins promptly at 7pm.  Registration and race starting point will be at El Chupacabra in Phinney Ridge. 

Do I have to have a mutant bike to ride in the race?
No, but you'll definitely want to build one after you see all of the cool mutant bikes at the ride.

I personally love the Dead Baby Downhill, but you don't have to just take my word for it that it's great fun.  Here are some posts from other blogs about Dead Baby Downhills of the past:

• Midnight-Mass
• Cycling in Seattle
• MetBlogs

Starting Location:  El Chupacabra  6711 Greenwood Ave N (map)
Time and Date:  Friday, Aug. 1, 5pm
Price:  $20