Cyclists love Maple Ridge’s annual costumed bike race, the Pumpkin Cross, which is set for this Sunday.
“With new events, new sponsors, combined with the music, MC and Halloween festivities, Pumpkin Cross is ready to show the cyclocross community why it was voted Pedal Magazines “Best Bike Race” in 2013,” said race organizer Barry Lyster.
The ever popular costume contest is back, and has become almost as competitive as the race itself. New Balance has come on board to offer a pair of shoes to the individual with the best judged costume.
New for the 2014 race is a team event. The winner of the team event will include the rider’s placing along with their team costume ranking.
Youth participation at cyclocross races in B.C. has seen tremendous growth in the last few years and Lyster is passionate about seeing more kids on bikes. There is a special price of $20 for new youth wanting to participate in Pumpkin Cross. This will include a one-day licence along with a race entry.
Almost any bike will work for this race. There is also a free kid’s race on a short course held at 12:15 p.m. for those youngsters on run bikes and small wheelers.
With cyclocross being one of the more inclusive cycling events, this year’s Pumpkin Cross has partnered with the Ridge Meadows Child Development Centre to create a specialty wheeled race. This fun event is for those young aspiring athletes who want to compete on their adapted bikes and race chairs.
Back again by popular demand is the clinic, race and licence package for beginner women. For $25 women will be able to join Liv Giant’s Sandra Walter, for a cyclocross skills clinic, receive a day-of licence and then be able to race Pumpkin Cross.
“We are seeing some real interest and growth in the women’s categories. Having the opportunity to be part of this is great for the sport,” said Lyster.
Pumpkin Cross will return to the North Alouette Greenway Park in Maple Ridge, BC. Registration is open and going strong and call-ups will be in order of registration. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged.
The event is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Register @ www.localride.ca.