The TransRockies Singletrack 6 Returns to Fernie on July 12 to 14th for a Spectacular 20th Anniversary Mountain Biking Adventure.
In 2002 the TransRockies began in Fernie with the TransRockies Challenge, the 7 day point to point stage race, and now the Singletrack 6. Fernie has been the perfect place to start, finish and host some of the TransRockies biggest and most important races for 20 years.
The TransRockies Singletrack 6 has become a highlight on the mountain biking calendar, attracting riders from around the globe to challenge themselves and immerse themselves in the thrill of world-class singletrack. In 2023, participants can expect an exceptional race that combines technical descents, lung-busting climbs, and awe-inspiring scenery, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie and adventure. “We are thrilled to bring back the TransRockies Singletrack 6 for the 20th anniversary of this incredible mountain bike race,” said Aaron McConnell, TransRockies President. “This event offers riders the opportunity to explore some of the most iconic trails in Western Canada and create lifelong memories along the way.”
In 2022 Fernie rider Carter Nieuwesteeg won the Singletrack 6 and he’s back this year. Carter will be riding the BC Bike Race coming into the Singletrack 6, 13 days of staging racing in 17 days. Carter commented, “It’s a quick turn around to defend my ST6 title that once again starts on home trails right here in Fernie. Taking on two of the most iconic week long stage races where anything can happen and I can’t wait to see where this thing goes!” Carter is the organizer of the Fernie Gravel Grind, a weekend long festival for 500 riders that’s raised over $20,000 for the local community.
Gearhub Sports is the Stage 1 title sponsor and support shop for this year’s ST6 and has two team riders participating. Steve Kelly and Dylan Bailey will be representing Gearhub and both will be riding Rocky Mountain Element’s.
The TransRockies crew is a dedicated group and the friendships continue to this day. Dan Savage, Fernie organizer, commented, “I’m stoked that Fernie continues to host this World Class event. The Transrockies was the seed that helped define Fernie as a mountain bike destination. It’s great in 2023 to have permission to include the Elk Valley Trail and finish in Sparwood!”
The 2023 TransRockies Singletrack 6 will span six stages, each with its own unique challenges and stunning surroundings. The schedule and stage locations for the Fernie are as follows:
Stage 1: Fernie, BC – July 13th (36km distance / 1150m elevation)
• Fernie will again provide a thrilling start to the week of racing, with riders embarking on a demanding course that showcases the area’s natural beauty.
• Spectators are encouraged to gather at the Fernie Aquatic Centre to witness the excitement as riders cross both the start and finish line here, celebrating their first stage accomplishment.
• Race start time is 8AM, with the first riders projected to cross the finish line at approximately 9:30AM.
• The Beer Garden, Food Trucks, Awards Ceremony and Course Briefing will take place at 2PM from the Fernie Aquatic Centre.
Stage 2: Fernie, BC to Sparwood, BC – July 14th (45km distance / 1100m elevation)
• The Fernie Aquatic Centre will once again set the stage for an exhilarating day of riding, as participants tackle technical terrain and embrace the rugged wilderness.
• Spectators are encouraged to gather at the Sparwood’s Titan truck to witness the fast-paced finishes and cheer on the riders as they complete another challenging stage.
• Race start time is 8AM, with the first riders projected to cross the finish line at approximately 9:30AM.
• The Beer Garden, BBQ, Awards Ceremony and Course Briefing will take place at 2PM from the Sparwood Visitor Centre.
Following Fernie the ST6 will move to the Crowsnest Pass for two exciting stages before heading to Canmore for the final two stages.
TransRockies would like to thank all of our local Fernie and Sparwood supporters including the City of Fernie, Fernie.com, Tourism Fernie, Fernie Trails Alliance, Park Place Lodge, GearHub Sports, Red Tree Lodge, Raging Elk Adventure Lodge, Fernie Lodging Company, Fernie RV Resort, Stanford Resort, Snow Valley Lodging, Coal Creek Heritage Society, the District of Sparwood, Sparwood Chamber of Commerce, the Sparwood Trails Alliance and the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
Best wishes to all the riders and organizers on the 20th Anniversary Mountain Biking Adventure!
