SUNDRE — More than two dozen young and enthusiastic cyclists put their skills to the test this past weekend during a training trial introducing riders to more technically challenging terrain features on Sundre’s Snake Hill in anticipation of competitions.
Following last year’s inaugural run, the Flexxaire Trailblazers Youth Racing Series was back in Sundre on Saturday, Aug. 6 for second time courtesy of an organizational effort led by the Sundre Bike n’ Ski Club, whose event was sanctioned by the Alberta Bicycle Association and the Red Deer-based Central Alberta Bicycle Club.
There were three categories for riders aged four to eight as well as nine to 14, with the latter offering riders aged 12 or older the option to take a second lap, said Katie Jo Munro, club volunteer and event co-organizer.
“They can choose according to their ability,” she said.
Although there were no official results, the racers enjoyed the opportunity not only to explore Snake Hill but also to challenge and improve their abilities.
“Some of these kids do come here to train,” she said. “Last year during COVID, this was used a lot for training for kids who were off to provincial-type races, which were timed.”
Among them was Megan Homan, 13, whose parents Dwayne and Melanie drove her out from Red Deer for the event.
“We saw this race, and thought it would be a good one to start out on,” Dwayne said shortly after Megan finished her lap.
“I liked it,” Megan added. “It was a nice trail, it’s real nice here. I would come back for sure.”
Asked how it felt to host the event for the second time in a row following last year’s inaugural attempt, Munro said, “Fantastic. Way less nerves, because we didn’t know what we were in for last year. This year, we felt a little more prepared.”
Additionally, the Sundre Hospital Futures Committee also made available its mobile barbecue, which was manned by former Sundre mayor Terry Leslie who alongside his grandchildren cooked and served up some hot dogs and offered bottled water.
“We didn’t have that last year,” she said.
Looking ahead to next summer with the experience of the past two events under their belt, Munro said the club looks forward to further enhancing the race.