The second annual Kootenay Krusher endurance mountain bike race is set for Sunday, September 25, at 10 a.m. at the beautiful Nipika Mountain Resort.

The race is a partnership between the Columbia Valley Cycling Society and Nipika and a great fundraiser for the local volunteer cycling club. All of the money raised by the cycling club will be put back into the local cycling scene.

For the hardcore, this year’s event will feature the regular 50 kilometre distance, the same as last year. New this year is the addition of a 25 kilometre distance for those new to racing bikes, or those who simply don’t want to race 50 kilometres. It is hoped that the more friendly 25 kilometre distance will attract a number of local riders to come out and try racing.

There will be men’s and women’s categories in the following age divisions:  13 to 17 (25 kilometres); 18 to 39 (25 or 50 kilometres); 40 and over (25 and 50 kilometres).

A three kilometre fun race will also be held for little racers aged 12 and under.

The race course will feature a mix of fast and demanding singletrack trail, beautiful viewscapes, and exciting technical features. The course will emphasize pedalling without any extreme climbs. Parts of the course have been used in the past in the TransRockies mountain bike race and have drawn praise from riders from all over the world.

Entry is $75 and can be done at: https://zone4.ca/onlinereg.asp?id=3956&lan=1

Racers will receive an event t-shirt, a post-race meal, and a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Volunteers are still needed. Volunteers will do jobs like work food/water stations, patrol road crossings, and help with the festivities. If you’d like to come out and help cheer the riders on and enjoy the beautiful mountain views contact Kevin at [email protected]. Volunteers will have a good time and get a race t-shirt for their efforts.

Last year’s inaugural event attracted over 110 riders. It is hoped that even more will come out and enjoy mountain bike racing this year.

By Adrian Bergles

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