The third round of the 2014 Test of Metal mountain bike events will take place in 麻豆社国产with the Gear Jammer on Saturday (July 19). The event, the first to take advantage of the immense and great single track in Squamish, has seen a number of course changes for the 2014 race only enhancing its prestige.
The major changes are the addition of two new gems to the trail network: Man Boobs and Rupert, which will be ridden before riders make their way around to the Diamond Head area of the network via the North-West Connector.
Although uncommonly hot for the Gear Jammer, conditions this year look set to challenge racers again. The trails, already dry and dusty a week out, won鈥檛 receive much in the way of moisture or a break from the heat anytime soon. It should make for some good times on the trails and great opportunities for spectators to get out the super soakers.
Riders to look out for this year include local boys Greg Day and Quinn Moberg, who are in top shape after recently winning the team division of the B.C. Bike Race, a feat only outdone by their setting of a race record during day six in Squamish, taking out the day in a one-two finish, ahead of any solo athletes.
It won鈥檛 be a walk in the park, however, if the likes of Kris Sneddon and Max Plaxson race the event. Plaxson won the 2014 Test of Metal and Sneddon took out the Ore Crusher ahead of both Moberg and Day. If in town for the race, junior phenoms Rhys Verner and Luke Di Marzo will also be two to keep an eye out for. Both are incredibly skilled riders.
Racer shuttles from the 麻豆社国产Elementary school to the start line at Alice Lake will start around 7:30 a.m. and run until 9:45 a.m., giving racers the opportunity to park close to the finish line by the 麻豆社国产Adventure Centre in Rose Park. There will also be spectator shuttles to the start line between 9:30 and 11 a.m., for those who wish to support the racers as they set off into the wilderness.聽
