Another fabulous day Sunday for the hundreds of cyclists who came to Salmon Arm to test themselves on the South Canoe trails.
“Every year I’m blown away by how many people want to keep coming back,” said Salty Dog co-organizer Tom Peasgood of Skookum Cycle. “It’s a fun atmosphere, a really small-town atmosphere, and everyone super appreciates what they get.”
With about 485 adults racing in the main event, the Salty Dog 6-Hour Enduro mountain bike race, and 250 young people between the ages of three and 15 taking part in the Salty Dog 3-Hour Under-15, the Salty Pup 1-Hour Enduro and the new Junior Salty Pup 30-Minute Enduro, the hills were alive with the sight of energetic cyclists. The 6-Hour Enduro sold out in January within nine hours of registration opening.
“Most people were here for a minimum of one day and some for three days, spending money in our community big-time,” said Peasgood. “We estimate $400,000 came into the community over two days for food, gas, accommodations, things like that.”
One highlight, says Peasgood, were the two winning solo racers who managed to complete 10 laps rather than the nine maximum of last year, despite a longer course. At an average of about 38 minutes a lap, that is “stinkin’ fast,” summed up Peasgood.
More local riders, both adults and young people, participated this year than ever before. Local racers did well, with the team of John Connor and Warren Ellis placing first in the men’s team, 71-94 lap length. Alison Howatt and Laura Hepburn placed second in the women’s team 71-plus lap length. Seth van Varseveld and Andrew Nash placed first in the 3-Hour Under 15 Enduro. All the results can be seen at zone4.ca.
Helping the cause were more than 100 local volunteers, many returning, who came out to experience the fun.
For Peasgood, the attraction of the race can be summed up this way: “It’s like going to Gramma’s house, getting a piece of apple pie and going home. Everyone has this really good down-home, old-school feeling.”
