The clock is ticking for the debut of the NimbyFifty mountain bike race on Saturday, May 29, and at press time there were just 30 spots remaining out of 200.
Our notoriously last minute locals are urged to hurry up and register as the majority of spots in the event are being scooped up by riders from the Lower Mainland, as well as Vancouver Island, the Interior and Washington state.
The organizers are also encouraged by the number of women taking part, as well as the rumour that national team rider Catherine Pendrel is thinking of joinig the race.
The race weighs in at over 35 km, and includes some of the best singletrack in Pemberton Valley, including the 11.2 km, 101-switchback Big Nimby climb, Overnight Sensation, Radio Tower, Sphincter, Econoline, No Err, Ramble On, Moby Dick and Dark Forest. One of the faster riders in town pre-rode the course two weeks ago and finished in roughly two and a half hours. Organizers are cautioning that it's not a race for beginners or most intermediates, but will appeal to the same riders who tackle races like the GearJammer, Four Queens and other technical events.
In fact, if you're registering for the Four Queens this year the last of the four stages is pretty similar to the NimbyFifty, which makes the NimbyFifty a good opportunity to train.
A couple of local women are providing food to the riders to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. They will also be offering food and refreshments to friends and family of riders at the finish line. Papa Josh has been booked for the post-race party.
Other new additions to the event include four Primes on the course, with cash going to the first male and female rider to the top of the gravel road and the entrance to Radio Tower, as well as to the first male and female riders to the top of Big Nimby at the paraglide launch.
The Pemberton Bike Co. will also support the race by providing mechanical assistance at the start and finish. Pemberton Valley Wellness will be at the finish to offer massage and chiropractor treatments to racers.
The race is still seeking volunteers to help out. If you can help out visit the website and click on the Contact tab to get in touch with organizers.
For more information and registration visit www.bignimby.com.
