Contributed by the Revelstoke Cycling Association
It was a few days later than planned due to a weather delay but the third race of the XC Racing Series presented by Arrow Helicopters went off without a hitch last Monday.
The weather was quite pleasant for a change and despite the new date we still had 26 riders take part.
This race tested a new enduro format for our series and I am sure by the fourth or fifth lap the riders were starting to suffer on some of the punchy climbs on TNT or the bumpy bits of Richard Liqueur. Hopefully the descent down Toad School, Buff Enuff and Tantrum was still enjoyable though!
All in all, the riders were quite positive about the format and certainly it tested the lead riders a little more than usual. Stay tuned, but we might use it again later in the season.
Despite the promise of a longer race the pace off the start seemed to be faster than usual. I think we can blame Marty Schaffer as he took off and tried to crack everyone right off the start. Brendan MacIntosh and Martin Lapointe didn’t panic though and slowly and surely pulled Marty back.
Unfortunately a flat tire took Marty out of the race after the fourth lap. Brendan went on to pull away from Martin and take the win with five laps. Don Roberston finished third. Mel Bernier was the lead woman (and sixth overall), while Sarah Newton and Sophie-Anne Blanchette had a tight battle for second and third.
Thanks again to all the sponsors including Helios Rehab, Valhalla Pure, Stoke Roasted Coffee, X-Training School, and Skookum that sent many riders home with great draw prizes. Don’t forget that if you participate in three or more RCA events you will be in the draw from some great end of season grand prizes from Pharmasave and Selkirk Tangiers Heliskiing.
The series continues this Wednesday, June 20. Visit www.bikerevelstoke.org for details.
