Annual race raised $900 for Pemberton SAR team
Sixty-five riders came out for the annual Tour de Soo bike race on Aug. 19, enjoying perfect riding conditions and a newly designed 45 kilometre course from Whistler to Pemberton.
There was more trail this, and more trail markers, which also resulted in a record low number of riders getting lost. The race also included a significant new single track descent from Echo Lake.
Although he started a little late, Greg Grant of Squamish finished the race in two hours and three minutes. Nikki Castle was the top woman in 2:41, and Brendon Edgar the top junior in 2:25. The last riders, who lost their way, posted a time of 6:07.
Organizers at the Whistler Bike Company would like to thank all the racers "for not expecting tons of draw prizes." By keeping costs low, the Tour de Soo managed to raise more than $900 for the Pemberton Search and Rescue team.
The race was made safe with the assistance of a B.C. Rail conductor, who provided first aid for a rider, Holly at the Ministry of Transportation and Highways who assisted with the highway section of the course, and numerous volunteers who spent hours on the course.
Pasta Lupino and Okanagan Springs supplied post-race nourishment.
Anyone interested in tackling the backcountry route from Whistler to Pemberton can pick up a map from the Whistler Bike Co.’s shop in the Delta Whistler Resort.
