Cyclists to Tackle Mt Washington Hill Climb
While the best cyclists in Europe are tackling the hardest mountain passes in the Tour de France this weekend, the best cyclists in B.C. will be undertaking the most demanding climb on the Island – Mount Washington.
"After a three-year hiatus the Comox Valley Cycle Club and Trail Bicycles are excited to announce the revival of Vertigo, the Mount Washington Hill Climb," an event spokesperson said.
On Saturday, July 23, cyclists are invited to come and take on one of the toughest hill climbs in B.C. Whether you are just an avid cyclist looking to test yourself, or a seasoned veteran looking to best your peers, the 16km climb with an average gradient of eight per cent and some sections as steep as 13 per cent, will certainly provide the challenge.
The fastest time up the hill in recent memory was recorded by Trevor Connor during Vertigo 2007. He climbed the scenic route to the top in a blistering 47:47. "It looks like a new record may be set this year with a group of young Comox Valley cyclists, such as Nigel Ellsay and Jordan Duncan, who are just back from Road Nationals with exceptional fitness," the spokesperson added.
Although this is a Regional Level Event with Cycling BC upgrade points on offer, all cyclists are welcome. All Cycling BC categories are available for men, women and junior cyclists, with juniors racing only the last 10km up the mountain.
Registration opens at 10 a.m. at the start line on the corner of the Duncan Bay Main and Strathcona Parkway just off the Inland Island Highway, with the race getting underway at noon. The race wraps up when the last racer crosses the line at the Mount Washington resort, with tons of draw prizes from Trail Bicycles.
For more information on this event and other cycling events in the Comox Valley, check out the Comox Valley Cycle club at comoxvalleycycleclub.blogspot.com or stop by Trail Bicycles at 1999 Lake Trail Rd. in Courtenay.
– Comox Valley Cycle Club