Well that escalated quickly, and now people will descend quickly like never before.
The first-ever mountain bike race and demonstration weekend for Quesnel is about to drop, and do we ever mean drop. Aug. 25-27 is the push-off for the inaugural Lhtako Dene Mountain Bike Festival, presented by the Gold Rush Cycling Club.
“This event is something the bike club has been thinking about hosting for a few years,” said club spokesperson Michelle Klapatiuk. “Last year we hosted a downhill race at the Quesnel Bike Park located at the Quesnel & District Arts & Recreation Centre. This was kind of a ‘test event’ for me and the club to see how well received a mountain biking event would be in Quesnel. The City was keen to see us host a Festival weekend, so we decided to go for it.”
A menu of events was created in which all ages, genders and experience levels could take part. There are already registrants from age five to 60. The Saturday races are aimed at more technical bikes and athletes, but the Saturday races could be done for fun on essentially any mountain bike.
Friday’s events are at the Quesnel Bike Park, with practice opportunities at the Wonderland Trail System. That’s where Saturday’s races are being held, followed by a social event at Barkerville Brewing Company downtown.
On Sunday, the events switch back to the Quesnel Bike Park.
It is easy for a crowd to gather that QBP, but Klapatiuk said it was also possible on Saturday. “If the public wanted to spectate, they would enjoy a nice hike at the Wonderland Trail Network where the Enduro race is taking place all day Saturday,” with plenty of spots to watch the trail for those who bring a lawn chair or don’t mind standing.
Entry fees are $50 for each day of racing, and there is a limited number of spots available. If you take part in both races – Enduro and Downhill – you will be entered in a draw to win a bike.
“When word spread that we were planning this festival weekend, Lhtako Dene asked if they could be the title sponsor,” said Klapatiuk. “Of course we agreed that this would be a great opportunity for us to partner with Lhtako and the City to pull off a fun, family-friendly weekend that will showcase our community and our trails.”
All athletes must complete a waiver on the day of the race kit pick up. All U19 racers must have a parent or guardian provide a signature to race.
Register by going online to zone4.ca and search up the Lhtako Dene Mountain Bike Festival. Click RIGHT HERE to get there right now.
READ MORE: Quesnel can bike me: First-ever bike event announced for August
READ MORE: New Quesnel mountain bike trails are complete
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