Event kicks off an exciting spring season leading to the June 1 State Championship
PALMYRA, VA — Fluvanna County’s Pleasant Grove Park is gearing up for an action-packed spring, hosting two USA Cycling-sanctioned mountain bike races within just eight weeks—starting with the Rockabilly Rumble on April 5.
Part of RVA Racing’s Underground Spring Series, the Rockabilly Rumble will bring riders from across the region to Pleasant Grove’s scenic trails for a day of fast-paced racing and community fun. With races scheduled at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., the event welcomes all ages and skill levels, offering more than a dozen race categories.
“Pleasant Grove’s trails are somewhat unique compared to other trail systems,” said John Petryla of RVA Racing. “The rolling terrain makes for a rewarding and fun ride no matter your pace. On April 5, expect short, fast laps with natural flow and beautiful descents.”
Matt Stancil, of Fluvanna County Parks and Recreation, is also known as the Fluvanna Trail Guy. He maintains the park’s 20+ miles of trails and helps organize outdoor events, youth mountain biking clinics, and serves as a resource for experienced mountain bikers planning to ride in Pleasant Grove.
“The Rockabilly Rumble is part of a great cross-country race series featuring shorter, spectator-friendly courses,” Stancil said. “Lots of bikes, food, and fun.”
The Rockabilly Rumble is just the beginning. On May 31 and June 1, RVA Racing returns to Pleasant Grove for the 2025 MTB Marathon State Championships—an annual highlight that draws riders from across Virginia, up and down the East Coast, and beyond.
“It’s a true tour of the entire park from end to end,” said Petryla. “The course features a mix of trail styles that keep each lap fresh and engaging.”
“Camping, food, beer, fast bikes, and families,” Stancil added. “It’s a full-on weekend experience.”
More than a Sunday race, the two-day event has a festival-like atmosphere with food trucks, camping and fun.
With the continued interest in mountain biking around central Virginia and at Pleasant Grove, Fluvanna County has launched an online resource for riders. FindFluvanna.org’s new Mountain Biking at Pleasant Grove page offers trail details, planning tips, and info about everything else the 900+ acre park has to offer—from the Farm Heritage Museum and Butterfly Garden to Sandy Beach and scenic wooded escapes. The page is a collaboration between the county’s Parks and Recreation and Economic Development Departments, which promotes tourism to Fluvanna County.
“Pleasant Grove is such a unique resource, with a wide range of amenities that appeal to many different types of visitors, including the region’s mountain biking community,” said Jennifer Schmack, Director of Fluvanna County Economic Development. “RVA Racing produces fun, spectator-friendly events that showcase Pleasant Grove’s incredible trail network and beautiful natural experience. We’re looking forward to a great spring at Pleasant Grove.”
Learn more about the races at rvaracingevents.com
Explore biking and more at findfluvanna.org/mountain-biking