Although I don’t even ride a bike I can’t help getting energized over the TransRockies event that happens here each summer.

Even rain couldn’t dampen the activity and excitement this past week over the anticipated race culminating with the departure of over 450 riders this past Monday August 9, 2010 to begin the arduous seven day route of the TransRockies race.

Organizer Dan Savage does a fantastic job resulting in each year being better than the last one.

This event brings a great economic boost to our town that is much appreciated by everyone but for me I just love seeing and hearing the buzz associated with it all.

The sights and sounds of riders wizzing by in colourful gear and speaking different languages. Bikers covered in mud from head to foot getting hosed down alongside their bikes at the Fire Hall. The welcome at CP Station Square, the Community Center registration and the vibrancy of Second Avenue with people working and talking walking up and down and colourful tents lining the street that contributed to a wonderful festival atmosphere.

Fernie is fortunate to be the only community still hosting this event and thanks must go to the sponsors and the organizers and the people of Fernie who embrace this event each year.

The town was busy with trucks and tents including the stone coloured row of small tents at Prentice Park that looked like a berm of rock across the grounds and campers parked in the school parking lot with clothing drying from lines placed between trees.

But nothing compared to seeing all the riders leaving together, one visitor from Alberta commented that it brought tears to her eyes to see such a sight and to witness the excitement of the morning.

Makes me wish I was forty years younger and able to be a physical part of the wonder of it all. Thanks to all who make this wonderful event happen, I am already looking forward to next year.