Hotter'N Hell 100 Mile Bicycle Race in Wichita Falls, Texas

It's August and 100 degrees outside, you're in Wichita Falls, Texas, and you want to test your endurance to the limit. What better activity than to ride your bike 100 miles in the heat?

Welcome to the Hotter'N Hell Hundred, the largest single-day bicycle ride in the United States! Here you'll find over 10,000 professional and amateur riders from across the United States, willing to face 100 miles of city streets, parks, hills, back roads and highways, in the hottest Texas weather.

Back in the early 1980s, the citizens of Wichita Falls were in the planning stages of their Centennial Celebration. They wanted to throw an event that would pay tribute to the early settlers of the city. One such idea they came up with was a rocking chair marathon. This idea was dismissed, because it didn't show the tenacity of the people who settled in Wichita Falls.

An idea was born to host a 100 mile bicycle race. It would be held in the heat of the summer, and would be all about endurance. Thus came the Hotter'N Hell Hundred: 100 miles in 100 degree heat, to celebrate 100 years in Wichita Falls, Texas.

The first race was held in 1982 during Wichita Fall's Centennial celebration. 1200 bicycle riders participated in the initial race. Now, some 30+ years later, close to 14,000 participants ride!

Hotter'N Hell takes place over 3 days. A consumer show runs Thursday through Saturday, with vendors showcasing everything to do with bicycles: bikes, clothing, gear, tools and more. Other events leading up to the "big ride" include USA cycling road races for licensed riders, and the Wee Chi Tah Mountain Race on the best urban off-road trail in Texas.

There are also several trail runs for the non-cyclist, such as a half-marathon and 10k trail run.

If you're a spectator, then you'll definitely want to visit Finish Line Village. It's the food & entertainment venue located near the finish line. Music, food and drinks are available for purchase, in addition to cycling products.

For additional information on the Hotter'N Hell 100, Wichita Falls, or other bicycling events, please visit the links below: