OUACHITA CHALLENGE - Back and better than ever “The OC was back and better than ever in 2021 after being sidelined due to Covid restrictions in 2020. This year’s event brought required guidelines, to ensure safety and a stronger desire to showcase some of our favorite local routes to cyclists from all around” shared OCRA Race Officials. In its second decade, the 2021 Ouachita Challenge Mountain Bike Race & Tour took place in Oden on March 20-21, 2021. The first day of spring provided cyclists with moderate temperatures and a sunny day for the daily 60-mile excursions. The event provided cyclists from both a local and national level with two days of mountain biking through the Ouachita National Forest and scenic views of the Ouachita River. Saturday’s event included the 100k Gravel Grinder with 118 participants and Sunday morning’s race included 188 starters. Cyclists took advantage of two epic trails - Ouachita Trail and the Womble Trail. The Ouachita Trail has been known for its challenging climbs and technical sections. Scenic views of the mountains and valleys were captured during the Womble Trail which also provided riders with fast-paced trails. Photo courtesy of Kai Caddy.