By Ryan Parton
The 14th annual 12 Hours of Cumberland, one of the Valley’s most popular and sociable mountain bike races, returns to Cumberland Saturday, June 10.
Hosted by the United Riders of Cumberland (UROC) and sponsored by Seeds Food Market, 12 Hours of Cumberland features riders of all ages and abilities competing to complete the most circuits of a “fun for all” race course over a 12-hour period. The course will traverse both working forest and sections of the Cumberland Community Forest, featuring classic trails such as Rugburn, Swamp Monster, Crafty Butcher and Space Nugget.
Riders can compete in the solo category for the prestigious Twelve Hour Cup, or they can vie for a selection of equally coveted Beardsley Pottery mugs as a team of two or four in the male, female or mixed category.
“This event is a local favourite for sure, and it always has a really fun atmosphere,” says race director Evan Loveless. “The famous UROC Barbecue will be in full effect, and there are lots of great prizes to be won, whether you make the podium or barely manage to cross the finish line.”
Participants can register at www.unitedridersofcumberland.com. The cost is $40 per rider, although it’s half price for riders 12 to 16 and free for those under 12.
All participants must register online, as there will be no race-day registrations.
Race-day check-in and plate pick-up starts at 7 a.m. at Cumberland’s No. 6 Mine Park, which will also be home to a lively environment throughout the day for participants and spectators alike. The race itself runs from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to cheer on their favourite riders, partake in the jovial atmosphere and, with a little luck, get their photo taken with local UROC legends Jeremy Grasby and Mike Manara.
All participants must hold either a UROC membership ($20) or a Cycling BC race licence. A one-day licence will be available for purchase on race day for $10, although a UROC membership offers the best value by ensuring riders for all UROC events.
The United Riders of Cumberland is a non-profit society that promotes and supports the Comox Valley mountain bike community through trail work and advocacy, volunteerism, promotion of the sport and fundraising. To become a member, register for upcoming races or find out more, visit www.unitedridersofcumberland.com
