Riders and race organizers are gearing up for the final week-long sprint to the start line of the 16th annual North Shore Credit Union Test of Metal, which takes place on June 18.
"It's all coming together well," race director Cliff Miller said in a statement. "All the Test Pilots have their responsibilities dialled, the volunteers are signing up, and the course is looking fabulous."
More than 800 riders will be at the start line for this year's event which sold out in a record 24 minutes. A total of 153 racers are from out-of-province, with 81 of those riders hailing from outside Canada.
"We've got riders from as far away as Hawaii and Virginia to race this year," Miller said.
This year also has the inaugural Booster Juice Feed Zone at the powerhouse. The location, through which riders roll twice, is a favourite place from which to watch and support racers.
Both Booster Juice and the Campfire Grill will be at the Feed Zone and at the finish line selling healthy drinks and their tasty barbecue treats to hungry fans and racers, while supporting mountain biking by donating the proceeds to the Test of Metal. The money will be used for trail maintenance.
"We have been so lucky with the local, national and international sponsors of this event," said Miller. "They all jump on board and embrace the attitude of the event. This race is organized and run by volunteers. We couldn't do what we do without the generosity of our sponsors and the people of Squamish."
The Chief has also learned the status of several elite female racers for the big race. Defending champion Catharine Pendrel is back to defend her title as top women's elite racer for the event. Pendrel is hoping to three-peat as elite women's champion and a win would see her capture the title four out of the past five years.
Brackendale's Brandi Heisterman and 麻豆社国产resident Megan Rose are two other confirmed women's elite athletes in the race.
For more information on the Test of Metal, visit www.testofmetal.com.
