New Transrockies Route Announced

Officials from the TransRockies announced yesterday that a new route had been established for the world's most adventurous mountain bike race, beginning August 10th in Fernie, BC. The race, which covers about 600 km and sends two-member teams through the heart of Canada¹s Rockies, had to be re-routed for the first three days, due to wildfire activity in the area.

Local Fernie residents and backcountry experts were called in by TransRockies officials to consult on the route, finalized on August 6th. The new route will see competitors experience the challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery that the TransRockies is known for. It will also see the first two legs of the race begin in Fernie.

"We've ironed out the details and it¹s looking good," said Steve Kuijt, a legendary expert and owner of Mountain Pursuits Backcountry Adventures.

The new schedule is as follows:
- August 9th, Opening Ceremonies begin at 5:00 p.m. in downtown Fernie.
- August 10th, the first day, will be a challenging ride with lots of climbing as racers head up to Alpine Trails, then across Mt. Fernie, to Island Lake Resort, and then traveling to Fernie Alpine Resort (about 50km).
- August 11th, the second day, takes teams from Fernie Alpine Resort through Island Lake Resort and the Iron Pass down to the Bull River, and then east to Elkford via Cross Creek. (about 120km)
- August 12th, teams will head through the Elk Pass from Elkford and travel to Etherington campground in the Kananaskis. (Estimated kilometres are currently being determined.)

The route for the final four days remains the same:
- August 13, Etherington to Sandy McNabb
- August 14, Sandy McNabb to Bragg Creek
- August 15, Bragg Creek to Pine Grove
- August 16,, Pine Grove to Canmore

Spectator Information
Those interested in checking out the Race Start in Fernie on August 10th can see the racers head out from the historic downtown at 12:00 noon. Racers will cross the finish line at the Day Lodge at Fernie Alpine Resort at approximately 5:00 that day. On Day 2, spectators can catch the race start at Fernie Alpine Resort at 8:00 a.m.