April 24/14 19:16 pm - Youth XC Series Introduced by Test of Metal (B.C.)

Posted by Editoress on 04/24/14
 

Cycling BC is pleased to announce a new association with the Test of Metal Group of Events that will see the introduction of a BC Youth XC Mountain Bike Series. The series will be based on the Test of Metal Group's four renowned races in Squamish.

"We are very lucky to have this opportunity to work again with the Test of Metal Group," said Cycling BC's Executive Director Richard Wooles. "The new mountain bike series will feature shorter races within the Test of Metal events' popular long-distance format to allow younger riders to get involved in the sport. It just makes sense."

Cycling BC will be on site at each of the Test of Metal Group of Event's races, starting with Ore Crusher on May 10th, to manage logistics for the Cycling BC youth series. Shortened courses within the famous Test of Metal on June 14th, Gearjammer on July 19th, and Just Another Bike Race (JABR) on August 16th, make up the rest of the 2014 BC Youth XC Mountain Bike Series.

"The series is a great start to increasing development opportunities to young mountain bikers in the province, part of Cycling BC's mandate. The shorter format makes mountain bike racing much more accessible to up-and-coming athletes who might be new to the sport or coming from a High School program," said Cycling BC Race and Event Coordinator Barry Lyster.

Test of Metal Group of Events President Cliff Miller added that the Test of Metal fully supports the pursuits of young cyclists and this positive relationship with Cycling BC. "We have always supported youth cycling development and believe that providing these opportunities for youth strengthens and enhances our communities."

Riders who would like to take part in the 2014 BC Youth XC Mountain Bike Series events are asked to contact Cycling BC Race and Event Coordinator Barry Lyster (races@cyclingbc.net) to express their interest. Cycling BC representatives will also be available at each event to answer any questions about the series.

Racers wishing to participate in the BC Youth XC Mountain Bike Series are required to sign up for the main event(s) in the Recreational ages 14-19 category. Registration can be accessed from www.testofmetal.com or at www.webscorer.com. The Test of Metal is sold out, however, 4-Pack registration is still available for riders who wish to race in all four events. Individual entries are available for the Ore Crusher, Gearjammer and Just Another Bike Race, as well as a 3-Pack registration for all three races.

Riders competing in the BC Youth XC Mountain Bike Series start the races with the main field. After passing through Cycling BC's mandatory youth series finish line and making themselves known to Cycling BC representatives, riders who wish to continue and complete the full race course are welcome to do so. Cycling BC will track series points and award series leader's jerseys for the eligible U15, U17, and U19 women's and men's categories.