The fifth annual Pedal by the Puddle mountain biking event is coming up Sunday, June 10.
Once again more than 150 riders of all abilities, from all parts of the province will take part in the “Enduro” format event, which takes place over six hours on a 10-kilometre loop.
The object is to complete the greatest number of laps. There is a solo category for the hardcore riders, but most people ride as a team of two riders. Only one member of the team is on the course at any one time. In other words it’s a relay and you take turns riding. The course on South Lakeside features some of the best of Williams Lake’s famous singletrack.
The Pedal by the Puddle includes sections of Rotnee, Twizzler, Cabin Loop, the South Lakeside Ridge, Moose Drops, the old Gun-A-Noot downhill, Guiness, and Leppard Spots.
Last year overall entries increased to 157. Again this year there will be a Mini Pedal by the Puddle — a kids event for all ages and abilities. This will be a short, easy event with the emphasis on participation and fun.
This year there are also two exciting additions to the event.
Scott bicycles, makers of high performance mountain bikes, will be at the event with demo bicycles for people to try, including several models with the increasingly popular 29” wheel size.
Also, pedal organizers are bringing in a special guest announcer, Brett Tippie.
Originally from Kamloops, Tippie is a freeride mountain biking legend, and more recently has moved into event announcing, having MC’d such noted events as the Whistler Crankworx. His unique and lively style is sure to make for an entertaining day.
The event is open to anybody of any age who wants to enter; however, some degree of experience riding mountain bike trails is necessary for you to enjoy the course safely.
Most of the course is rolling singletrack and is a loop which finishes where it starts, so there is uphill riding involved. There are no jumps, apparatus or drop-offs. However, some sections are somewhat technical and steep.
The course map is posted on the event website and the course is already marked with race logo signs so if you’re not sure, check out the map and head out for a test ride. There is no rule against walking a difficult section if you want to play it safe.
The aim of the “Enduro” format is to encourage the participation of as wide as possible a range of rider experience and abilities, especially riders who may have never raced before but are looking to challenge themselves in a non-intimidating environment.
Each year more than 20 riders who have never been in any kind of organized cycling event before participate, and all have a good time. The goal for the day is for everyone to have a good ride, to challenge themselves, and to have fun.
For detailed information on how the format works visit www.pedalbythepuddle.com.
Once again this year net proceeds from the race will be donated to local charities.
We would love to have you be one of our volunteers. There are a number of social and fun volunteer jobs available, and no experience is required. To volunteer contact Donna Bentham at dbentham@tru.ca.
Please note the timing system for this type of race is a bit complicated, and riders must be entered into the system ahead of time, so you cannot enter on the day of the race! Deadline for entries is Saturday, June 9 at noon. Please plan ahead as we cannot accept late entries.
Although the race starts at 10 a.m. it’s worth getting there by about 8:30 a.m. to take in the pre-race activities.
Sign-in closes at 9:15 a.m. followed by a yoga warmup session by the staff of Satya Yoga studio. The kids’ race goes at 9:45 a.m. and is always a crowd favourite.
For more information, including a video of the course, the course map, and online entry, go to the event website at www.pedalbythepuddle.com. See you there!
