Although it's hard to carry on a conversation with a friend while ripping downhill at 80km/h, downhill mountain biking is very social sport. And while a lot of racers give their all in the Phat Wednesday Downhill Series — returning on Wednesday, June 13 — for most it's really all about the post-race party, and the chance to hang out with other riders. Some riders dress up in costumes, or remove chains for the extra challenge. Some pedal hard to beat the clock and win a share of the entry fees, while others take their time and enjoy the course.
Most Phat Wednesday courses are designed for intermediate riders, although there will be a few advanced races as well. The course for the June 13 race will be announced on the day of the event, but is typically held on B-Line or another beginner level trail to ease racers into series.
There are a total of eight Phat Wednesday races on the schedule this year;
June 13, June 20, June 27, July 4, July 11, July 18, August 1 and August 29.
To take part you need to be a member of the Whistler Off-Road Cycling Association (WORCA), have a valid bike park pass (discounted passes are $15 for Phat Wednesday riders) and chip $2 in the pot. The top riders in each category will split the pot based on the number of entries and with many of the races selling out all 200 spots that means as much as $400 is up for grabs.
As well, all riders are eligible to win some extremely valuable prizes donated by sponsors. Many of the prizes are worth more than the entire cash prize purse.
Registration is from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Garbanzo Bike and Bean, with the race getting underway at 6 p.m.
To speed up the line, you can register for WORCA online at www.worca.com.
