The Montana Interscholastic Cycling League (MICL) held a race called the Herron Hustle at Herron Park in Kalispell on September 14, 2024.
The MICL is a branch of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), a national organization that develops mountain biking programs for high school and middle school student-athletes across the United States. NICA currently operates in 31 states, with the Montana League being a part of it since 2019. Races are cross-country-style mountain bike races held on courses with varied terrain. They typically run from about 9 AM to 3 PM and start category by category, with waves throughout the day to spread riders out on the course.
Annually, Herron Park hosts a cycling event that brings together hundreds of youth cyclists and their families for a NICA league race. It requires careful coordination between the Flathead County Parks Department, NICA leadership, and local neighbors. The event has been ongoing for several years and typically serves as Herron Park’s swan song for summer events. This year’s event enjoyed some of the nicest weather in recent memory.
During a conversation with MICL League Director Sam Schultz, he shared the following insights:
"Herron Park is one of our League’s favorite venues. Families enjoy spending time in the beautiful park, and the student-athletes love the trails that make up the racecourse. We try to offer camping options at our races, and being able to accommodate all our families between the stable area and the nearby pasture that Dallas and Sue Herron generously let us utilize is awesome.
We were a little worried about heavy rains leading up to the event, but the storms parted ways, leaving perfect dirt and just the right feeling of fall in the air. We ended up having over 300 high school and middle school student-athletes compete during what was a super fun day of racing. The events aren’t easy to put on, but with over 100 walk-on volunteer positions filled throughout the weekend, in addition to our 20-deep Core Volunteer Team, everything went smoothly. Huge thanks to the local Flathead community for coming out and helping us make it happen! So cool to see all the happy kids and families, and we are very grateful to Flathead County Parks for helping facilitate our event."
Flathead County was once again honored to provide the venue for the Herron Hustle. The collaboration between the Flathead County Parks Department, MICL leadership, and the accommodating Herron Park neighbors made it possible. Herron Park, as always, provided the ideal venue with its beautifully maintained trails and open spaces.
At its heart, the Herron Hustle is a testament to the power of community. It’s not just about the race; it’s about coming together to support the growth and passion of our youth. Flathead County is grateful to be a part of this annual tradition, and we look forward to many more years of cycling, camaraderie, and community spirit at Herron Park.