Professional and amateur downhill cyclists gathered at the Coast Gravity Park outside of Sechelt last Saturday for the fifth annual Backwoods Jam.
“This is the biggest year we had so far,” said parks operations manager Kendra Zegers. That included the spectators.
About 1,500 people made the trip to the park, located north of Dusty Road, and 126 people rode in the event, including 26 professionals.
The day included a downhill race with 80 competitors. Sechelt-based rider Gracey Hemstreet, 14, was the fastest female rider and the fastest male was Ryan Howard.
In the afternoon, riders took to part in the Jump Jam, which attracted a large audience, said Zegers. American pro cyclist Nicholi Rogatkin took top spot for best trick, and the “Backwoods Boss” award was handed to pro racer Erik Fedko, 21, of Germany.
The jam occurs one week after Crankworx Whistler, a major international festival and elite competition.
While the Backwoods Jam is organized around the two competitions, the focus isn’t on winning, said Zegers. “It’s not about competing, [it’s] about just having fun without any pressure.”
The event is organized by Logan Peat and run by staff at the park and volunteers and is supported by sponsors.
