Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) jumped into their summer programs with two races this past week.
Bringing back their popular SCOTT Thursday Night Race Series, mountain bike racers explore a variety of FAR’s trails every Thursday evening starting at 6:30 p.m. Courses are revealed on race day, with last week’s race held on Hollow Tree. Competitors accumulate points throughout the races, with series champions awarded at the final race on September 3.
FAR also kicked off the first race of their North Face Trail Race Series on July 7. The three part series is open to all trail runners, with routes progressing in difficulty throughout the summer. The most recent race was roughly four kilometres long, with the following two set to be approximately six kilometres, and eight kilometres in length. The races are held on the first Tuesday of each month. All races are timed and scored, with awards given to the top three finishers in each category at the final race in September. Minimum racer age is eight years old, however those 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
“Both the SCOTT Thursday Night Race Series and the North Face Trail Running Series are grassroots events, based on participation and fun,” said Karen Pepper, marketing manager for FAR. “The race environment is supportive and builds tons of camaraderie between the participants, with the older, more experienced racers encouraging the younger ones, and families participating together. Ultimately, our race series’ are fun and relaxed events, a great way to challenge yourself in a really supportive atmosphere.”
Adding to the fun, each week the races finish with socially distanced refreshments on the patio at Legends Mountain Eatery, where organizers draw prizes for the participants while racers celebrate their achievements.
Accommodating for COVID-19 regulations, both races have staggered start times to prevent crowding at starting lines, with only race officials and competitors permitted in the area. Marshals are also present at the events to control crowds, with all event staff wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. To stay under the 50 person gathering limit, post race refreshments are limited to competitors only, and will follow regulations set out by the restaurant. To lessen contact points, registration is both limited and completed online via FAR’s website, closing at 6 p.m. on race day.
Entry is $5 per competitor, and includes a post race refreshment. Races will run rain or shine, with closures only occurring due to high winds, or thunder and lightning.
reporter@thefreepress.ca
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter