The third annual On the Edge Rat Race proved to be the best yet with a total of 256 riders taking part last weekend.
The new epic 48 km cross country course brought riders out from as far as Blue River, Seattle and from all areas of the Lower Mainland. It also brought back racers that had long ago given up racing on the traditional lap courses, which was one of the goals of the B.C. Marathon Series.
With the presence of professional riders, the fastest time was two hours, 24 minutes. The story of the day was a pro rider who had a major mechanical problem early in the race yet continued running with his bike around the remainder of the course (30 km) in order not to get a DNF (did not finish) on his record. He completed the course in five hours and 28 minutes.
Saturday, May 1, was the downhill event. As the trucks filled up with bikes and riders, they were taken to the start of the course and began their pre-rides. The smiles didn't take long to come as they finished their pre-rides and prepared for the race.
Due to hours of volunteer work enhancing and maintaining the downhill course, the fastest time of the day was 17 seconds faster than last year.
This past week, organizers have received many emails from off Coast racers stating how much they enjoyed the courses and the great volunteers who cheered them to the finish line.
The organizers would like to give a big thanks to all the volunteers who came out and to the terrific race sponsors. Without these key groups, races like this can't take place.
