Three day mountain bike stage racing continues in Fernie for 2014 with the launch of the Fernie 3. For 12 years the Fernie TransRockies Society managed Fernie’s involvement in the TransRockies Challenge. Fernie is the only community to have hosted all 12 TransRockies events and for good reason, Fernie has some of the best mountain biking in Western Canada.
A multiple year participant summarizes why Fernie has become so popular, “Fernie has the best single track riding in BC! I can’t wait to ride there again!”— Mical Dyck
This past summer TransRockies Inc. moved on from the 12 year old TransRockies Challenge and introduced the Singletrack 6, a six day stage race in Western Canada. Arron McConnell, TransRockies Inc. President, commented, ”Fernie has been a big part of the TransRockies Challenge and we will be returning with the Singletrack Six. For a couple of years we need to refresh our premier event with new trails and communities.”
The Fernie 3 is scheduled for June 28 to 30th and will cater to new and old riders, and gnarled veterans alike, with focus on the best singletrack stages ever, followed by classic Fernie hospitality! Dan Savage, TransRockies Society Event Director commented, “We want to offer a fun and challenging race with something for everyone who mountain bikes”. This years stage courses have not been finalized however you can expect slightly shorter stages, with Stage 1 and 2 starting and ending in the downtown, and Stage 3 starting and finishing at Fernie Alpine Resort. The stage details will be released in 2014 after further planning discussions with event partners.
The very popular Kids’ Bike Rally will continue for its eight year. Free for kids’ aged three to nine, the event is a fun and educational parade in the downtown and includes stage stops at Straightline Bikes, the Fernie Heritage Library, the Fernie Fire station, Overwaitea Foods and Freshies. The Fernie Chamber of Commerce helps integrate the event with the fun Downtown Summer Socials.
In keeping with the theme of “something for everyone” organizers are exploring the opportunity of including a youth XC single-day mountain bike race for 10 to 16 year old’s. We are in discussion with another group to help organize this category and will be making an announcement early in 2014.
With local organization the mountain bike community will benefit from an increase in funding directed towards the Fernie Trails Alliance(FTA). The FTA works with outdoor recreation groups, government, and private land owners to enhance and maintain the Fernie trail network.
Early Bird pricing of $299 is available until March 30th. Register now and save! For more information and registration for the Fernie 3 CLICK HERE.
