September 22/11 9:18 am - Pumpkin Cross Registration Open

Posted by Editoress on 09/22/11
 

Local Cycling Race Brings Halloween Atmosphere to Maple Ridge October 23

Organizers of the Fifth Annual Pumpkin Cross BC Cup Cyclo-cross race presented by Local Ride Bike Shop are pleased to announce registration is now open online for the Halloween-themed event at Maple Ridge Equi-Sport Centre on Sunday, October 23rd.

“There are going to be some new twists and turns to this year’s course that will keep all of the racers on their toes,” said Race Organizer Barry Lyster, owner of Local Ride Bike Shop. “In addition to obstacles like Lezyne Lake, the Spooky Forest, and the Coffin, our course designers have some tricks up their sleeves.”

Riders wait to start

Cyclo-cross is a discipline of off-road cycling that sees competitors vie against one another over multiple laps of a course that typically takes under 10 minutes to complete, with the entire race time clocking in at under 60 minutes. Racers face obstacles and barriers for which they often must dismount from their bicycles to overcome. Due to its fast-paced and spectator-friendly nature, cyclo-cross is a popular activity for all levels of competitors, and offers a range of categories from beginner to elite.

Kids race

Over the five-year history of Pumpkin Cross, organizers have always strongly encouraged its participants to dress in costume. They even entice competitors with a cash bonus if they can win their race in costume and a prize for overall best costume.

“We anticipate an even larger rider turnout than last year with a larger percentage getting creative with costumes. It’s great to see more and more people embracing the festive Halloween spirit by dressing up and having fun. That’s what Pumpkin Cross is all about,” said Lyster.

Maggie Coles-Lyster, Nica Novlesky, Marie Devantier - all phtos by Alan Young

Pumpkin Cross even offers a free kid’s race and a $10 race entry for youth Under 17.

“We would like to thank the Maple Ridge Equi-Sport Centre for allowing us to use their venue for this fun family event,” said Lyster. The race is generously supported by the following sponsors: Local Rid Bike Shop, Giant Bicycles, Cycles Lambert, Lezyne Pumps and Tools, Maxxis Tires, GORE Cables, Honey Stinger Energy Foods, Pedros Tools, Kicking Horse Coffee, District of Maple Ridge, and Cycling BC.

More info at www.localride.ca

Register at www.karelo.com

Courtesy Local Ride Bike Shop