TransRockies

Two-Wheelin' Volunteers Needed For Course Sweep

2008-06-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

Want to be part of the TransRockies experience and get a taste of what it's like to ride in the world's most remote mountain bike stage race?

TransRockies is looking for volunteers to support our sweep moto team in ensuring that we leave the trails we use in pristine condition. Members of our bike sweep team will ride a portion of each stage at the back of the field, collecting any stray garbage that may have been left on the trail. All participants are required to carry garbage with them for disposal at control stations, but we want to make sure nothing gets missed.

Meals, transportation and tent accommodation will be provided. For more information or to volunteer, please email phil@transrockies.com

To find out if you're suited to the TransRockies crew experience, click here.

Volunteer Opportunities for TR VII

2008-06-24T14:29:00.000-07:00

You've heard all about it, you know friends who are doing it and you really, really, really want to someday do it too, but you just aren't sure what to expect.

We have the perfect solution! Join our team of volunteers this summer and experience the event up close and personal without having to commit yourself to months of training. We are looking to add some solid, reliable volunteers to our event crew who can help us round out our stellar team of event professionals.

Whether you're a doctor, librarian or retiree, we have jobs for you! Volunteers are provided with tent accommodation, three meals a day and transportation to, from and during the event. They also get some sweet swag in return for hard work and long days.

Interested volunteers must be available for 8 or 9 days, beginning August 9th, 2008. Please email phil@transrockies.com for more information or to sign up for the best volunteer experience in the bike world!

To find out if you're suited to the TransRockies crew experience, click here.

Fernie - Host Community for the 2008 TransRockies Epic Finish

2008-05-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

Fernie has participated as a stage host of the TransRockies every year since the event began in 2002, and for great reasons. With some of the best singletrack mountain biking in the Canadian Rockies and all the amenities of a ski town, combined with an extremely hospitable local population, Fernie has emerged as the cornerstone community of the TransRockies.

Local riders have been building an extensive network of singletrack trails for over 20 years. More than 60 trails line the valley and ridges overlooking the 100-year-old mining town. A huge variety of trail options offer everything from a technical, formidable riding challenge to a pleasurable scenic cruise. As an international powder skiing destination, local accommodation and dining amenities are in abundance, catering to all budgets and tastes. Combining modern sport and recreation tourism with Fernie's historic roots as a mining town has created a unique destination where relaxed locals greet visitors with a smile.

The people of Fernie invite you to visit and train for the TransRockies this summer, and they look forward to cheering on your epic finish on August 16th in the heart of town! The community will be hosting a Champagne Tent and Beer Garden at the finish line - to reserve your special 10 x 10 tent with champagne and food please contact the Fernie organizers at transrockies@fernie.com

If you're traveling with children aged three to eight, plan to participate in the Junior TransRockies at 10 a.m. on the 16th of August. The event is fun, educational and free to all. Contact the Fernie organizers to register.

The following accommodation sponsors will be providing free bus transportation to-and-from the Closing Ceremonies banquet. When booking, please ask for the TransRockies rate!

Best Western Fernie Mountain Lodge - www.bestwesternfernie.com
Lizard Creek Lodge - www.lizardcreek.com
Park Place Lodge - www.ferniegetaways.com
Pinnacle Ridge Resort - www.pinnacle-ridge.com
Red Tree Lodge - www.redtreelodge.com
Stanford Hotels and Resorts - www.stanfordinn.net

We look forward to seeing you in Fernie!

New Host - TransRockies Spending Night at K2 Ranch

2008-04-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

It's appropriate that the 2008 TransRockies will be spending a night at a ranch named for a fearsome Himalayan peak. Over the last six years, the TransRockies has established itself as a true international adventure, pushing mountain bikers to their limit with epic riding and the full spectrum of Rocky Mountain weather.

K2 Ranch, our host for the evening of Stage 1, is one of the oldest ranches in the Invermere area, founded in the 1890s during the initial settlement surge in the Columbia Valley. While the 9,200-acre ranch is just a 10-minute drive from Invermere on the Westside Road, it offers a truly pristine setting along the western edge of the majestic Columbia River valley at the base of the Purcell Ranges which contain some of the highest and most spectacular peaks in the Canadian Rockies. Bob and Barb Shaunessy bought K2 Ranch in 2000 and have undertaken extensive restoration and conservancy efforts to restore the land to its original 1890s state.

"We're really pleased to be able to spend our first night at K2 Ranch," said TransRockies Event Director Aaron McConnell. "It's an absolutely spectacular setting and will be a really authentic Rocky Mountain experience for the 600 racers who will be coming from all over the world to participate in this year's event."

To recognize the generosity of the Shaunessy family in allowing the TransRockies riders and support crew to spend a night on their land, the TransRockies will be making a donation in the name of 'SRL K2 Ranch - Bob and Barb Shaunessy' to the Mount Nelson Athletic Park in Invermere, which serves the entire region with a wide range of sport and recreational facilities.

2008 Stage Locations Announced!

2008-04-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

Since the last edition of the TransRockies finished in downtown Fernie, British Columbia, organizers and trail crew members have been hard at work planning the 2008 route. So, when 600 riders from over 20 countries roll up to the start line in Panorama Resort this August, they will be facing seven days of mountain biking which includes more singletrack, more vertical and more distance than before.

Throughout the route development process, rider feedback was foremost in mind and the seventh edition of the TransRockies which takes place from August 10th until August 16th will mix in the classic TransRockies routes and stopovers which received high rider marks with new trails and host locations to improve the riding experience. This will be the third year that the TransRockies has run mostly along the British Columbia side of the Continental Divide, and each year more trails and routing options through the Kootenay Rockies are developed and discovered.

One of the key new elements for 2008 is a new, longer Day 7 routing which will see the riders travel from Crowsnest Pass through to Fernie, crossing the Continental Divide one last time. "We received feedback from many riders that Stage 7 was a bit too short," said Event Director Aaron McConnell. "So, for 2008 we've added another 35km or so with lots of new singletrack to the route. Those beers in Fernie are going to taste even better after another classic TransRockies day."

Sometimes, circumstances force unexpected changes which turn out to be for the best. In 2007, extreme forest fire risk meant that the TransRockies was unable to make its traditional overnight trip to Crowsnest Pass. The extra night was spent in the gorgeous surroundings of Nipika Resort, marking the first time that the TransRockies has spent two consecutive nights in the same place. The day gave riders a day with no bags to pack, no tents to find and turned out to be so popular that it has been brought back for 2008. With an extra year to prepare, the routings through the Nipika area have been developed to offer even better riding.

While final routings are always subject to conditions such as snow melt, fire conditions and wildlife risk, the stopover locations for 2008 are listed below. As they have been in the past, maps and exact course information will not be announced until the start of sign-on in August.

2008 TransRockies Stage Locations

Stage 1 - August 10: Panorama Mountain Village to K2 Ranch
Stage 2 - August 11: K2 Ranch to Nipika Resort
Stage 3 - August 12: Nipika Resort to Nipika Resort
Stage 4 - August 13: Nipika Resort to Whiteswan Lake
Stage 5 - August 14: Whiteswan Lake to Elkford, BC
Stage 6 - August 15: Elkford, BC to Crowsnest Pass, AB
Stage 7 - August 16: Crowsnest Pass, AB to Fernie, BC

'Ride A Rocky Night' at The Bike Shop, March 20

2008-03-05T16:04:00.001-08:00

If there is one detail of your TransRockies experience that is absolutely, unequivocally not to be overlooked or under-thought, it's what rugged and reliable bicycle you will choose to get you through each day.

With that in mind, TransRockies is teaming up with Rocky Mountain Bicycles and The Bike Shop to host 'Ride A Rocky Night' on March 20 in Calgary, Canada. This will be the perfect opportunity to learn why Rocky Mountain bikes are unmatched when it comes to two-wheeled TransRockies-worthy transportation.

From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Rocky Mountain rep Keith Brodsky and bike designer Tim McDermott, along with representatives of TransRockies and The Bike Shop, will host a series of short, informal seminars covering what every rider worth his spandex should know - from the little details that separate Rocky from its competitors to all the tricks for race-worthy bike prep and maintenance. There will also be a chance to ask those burning questions that keep you up at night (maybe not yet, but closer to race time you WILL have nightmares of unlucky mechanical failures, broken seats and saddle sores). You'll also get a chance to hop into the saddle of Rocky Mountain's newest lineup.

No RSVP is necessary, but feel free to call us at the TransRockies office with any questions before March 20.

Get Outta Your Tent and Into Bed at Nipika Mountain Resort

2008-03-05T15:30:00.000-08:00

* SOLD OUT! *

It took less than a month for these prime beds to fill up. Congratulations to those who snagged one in time - you won't be disappointed.

The route may change, the weather may shift and the gods of fortune may play differently from year to year, but no matter the variables, there has been one constant throughout the past six years of the TransRockies. If you've ridden with us before, you'll know what we're talking about.

We've watched you cruise through Day One - a tease, really, mere ceremony - smiling as you cross the finish line thinking, "That was nuthin'! If that's it I've got this thing bagged!" On Day Two things, well, get a little harder and though you're still smiling at the finish line you look a little wiser, like you're thinking maybe you shouldn't get ahead of yourself; like maybe we know something you don't. On Day Three you remember - TransRockies is considered the toughest mountain bike race on Earth, and by dawn of Day Four you've only just scratched the surface of the wild backcountry in Canada's Kootenay Rocky Mountains. Things are about to get interesting. It is this creeping-up of fatigue that is constant year after year. By Day Four, we can honestly tell you that you really do look like hell. The good news is Day Four is hump day - once you finish it you're more than halfway there.

This year's riders will have one very distinct advantage over previous participants, and it comes in the form of feather pillows and down duvets - for a lucky few. On the nights of Day Two and Day Three the TransRockies camp will be nestled in a mountain meadow beneath rocky peaks at Nipika Mountain Resort, an eco-resort with a fabulous perk - log cabins.

For the first time, Nipika has blocked 100 per cent of its accommodation for rental by TransRockies riders, their families and friends. Because the race will both start and finish at Nipika for two days, with two completely different and incredibly epic routes, those who rent a bed in one of the resort's cozy cabins will enjoy amenities like a wood-burning stove, kitchen and full bathroom for two luxurious nights. Not to mention a fabulous porch with views of the meadow where the rest of the sorry-looking riders will be camped out in tents. Never underestimate the power of a good night's sleep as a serious advantage.

Accommodation is being rented on a per-bed basis, with couples able to share private bedrooms in shared cabins. Individuals will get a single bed but may have to share a room with someone else. Beds are also booked for two nights - no single-night stays will be accepted.

The cost for two nights of accommodation is $150.00 per person + tax, totaling $168.00 CAD. To book, contact Nipika Mountain Resort directly, toll-free at 1-877-647-4525 or (250) 342-6516, or by email at info@nipika.com

Booking a bed at Nipika will not reduce a participant's registration fee.

TransRockies in the media

2008-01-22T14:54:00.000-08:00

Over the years, writers from all over the world have come to Canada to ride the TransRockies and have written some amazing articles about their experiences. One of the things we have added to our new website is a way to share these articles with you.

Visit this page to check out articles about the TransRockies. They should give you lots of inspiration as you get ready for this coming summer's race.

2007 TransRockies photos from Spectrum Imaging available online

2008-01-22T14:48:00.000-08:00

Remember being out there riding for hours and hours then, all of a sudden, there was some crazy photographer out in the middle of the bush taking pictures of you? Well, that was Roger Stermann and his team from Spectrum Imaging.

They took tens of thousands of pictures during the 2007 TransRockies and they spent untold hours sorting and tagging them so that you can easily find pictures of your team. Visit www.specimage.com to look at the images and order photos of yourselves that will help you remember your TransRockies adventure for years to come.

New Rule - No towing devices

2008-01-22T14:43:00.000-08:00

One of the ongoing discussions over the past few years in the TransRockies has been over the use of towing devices between team members. While using devices is an established tradition in adventure racing and was accepted in the early days of epic team mountain bike events, there was always a feeling that, along with safety concerns when riding with other teams, it also wasn't really part of the TransRockies ethic.

So, with that in mind, we have added a new rule to our 2008 Rules and Regulations which specifically bans the use of towing devices while allowing the type of team cooperation - pulling, pushing, sharing the load - which makes the TransRockies so different from solo racing.

The full rule reads as follows: 2.13 While it is allowed for team members to support each other by pushing or pulling manually, it is prohibited for safety reasons to use any kind of device or mechanical aide to do so. There will be repeated checks at the start and along each daily stage to ensure compliance with this regulation.

It's always a good idea to be familiar with the full rules and regulations and you can view them all by downloading this PDF. If you have any questions regarding any of the rules, feel free to contact us at info@transrockies.com.

Nutritionist to guide meal planning at TransRockies VII

2008-01-22T13:24:00.000-08:00

Every year the TransRockies organization endeavours to make the participant experience effortless - other than the actual riding, of course. Though we readily admit to carving a demanding race route, when it comes to time out of the saddle our sole purpose, one could say, is to ensure you have little to concern yourself with other than applying your own butt cream.

It goes without saying that the basic essentials feel more like luxuries during the seven days of TransRockies - hot showers, a comfortable place to sleep and, of course, hot, tasty and nutritious meals. The TransRockies team takes these areas of race planning and execution very seriously. We know and understand how important it is to not only have enough fuel at the beginning and end of each stage, but to ensure those calories are full of valuable commodities that not only fill you up, but help your body recover each day.

And so, in our ongoing effort to improve upon the TR experience each and every year, we are pleased to announce that TransRockies has partnered with Canadian nutritionist Melissa Spooner in developing the meal plans for TR VII. Melissa will bring an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience to the planning table and we are very excited to have her on board.

A three-time Ironman winner, Melissa has a BSc with a Major in Nutrition. Working primarily with endurance athletes, she owns and runs Endurance Health & Fitness in Vernon, B.C., Canada, serving clients locally and throughout North America. Having crewed privately for a team at TransRockies in 2007, she is already ahead of the curve in understanding what TR racers are up against nutritionally.

"My goal is that the athletes feel like they can not only have great tasting food after a hard day of racing through the Rockies, but I believe that through good nutrition they can recover and be ready to tackle the next day," she says. "A good balance of lean proteins, essential fatty acids and, of course, our fuel of choice, complex carbohydrates. The key for the endurance athlete is to have energy to fuel them for their event, have access to enough fuel during their event, and to have good post-event nutrition so they can get up the next day and do it all over again."

Melissa and the TransRockies team are currently in the process of selecting a caterer for TR VII. Once the winning bid is confirmed, Melissa will develop pre-menu nutritional guidelines for the catering team, make adjustments to the menu plan during its development and preside over the final approval.

We are also excited to welcome Melissa as a contributer to our monthly TransRockies e-newsletter. Each month she will discuss an important component of training and recovery for endurance athletes, beginning with the first installment in a few weeks' time - how to tackle the lazy winter blues and begin building a solid training foundation.

Visit the Endurance Health & Fitness website

To subscribe to our e-newsletter enter your email address on the left side of the page.

TransRockies 2008 Registration on Record Pace

2007-11-11T15:08:00.000-08:00

We knew we'd be busy, but when the phone started ringing continuously at 9am on November 1st -- an hour before registration opened -- it became clear to us that TransRockies truly has grown to become one of the world's must-do mountain bike races. In the first day alone, nearly 200 of the 300 team spots were taken!

Needless to say we are excited about the interest in the 2008 TransRockies Challenge and want to thank everyone who signed up in the first week -- fueling the urgency for the rest of you to get registered before the race sells out! Currently we are over 75 per cent full, with 100 per cent of the Expedition packages spoken for. There are still spots in the Adventure and Epic packages.

At this pace we expect to sell out in the next week, and based on our experience in previous years it's likely registrations will accelerate as we get closer to full capacity -- in other words register NOW! Once the event is full a wait-list feature will become available through online registration. As spots become available those on the wait list will automatically be registered.

Some interesting registration stats thus far:

26 countries are already represented: 38% Canada, 17% UK, 15% USA, 5% South Africa, 4% Australia, 4% New Zealand
Average age: 38
Categories registered in: Open Men - 45%, 80+ Men - 29%, Open Mixed - 12%, Open Women - 6%, 80+ Mixed - 5%, 100+ Open Gender - 3%

Photos available for purchase from Spectrum Imaging

2007-11-04T10:36:00.000-08:00

TransRockies 2007 Photos are now available for purchase from Spectrum Imaging. To view photos of your team, follow this link.

2007-11-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

Registration Update - November 1, 2007 - 8:00 PM
Over 60% Sold Out! Expedition Packages 80% Sold Out!

2007-11-01T10:38:00.000-07:00

Registration Update - November 1, 2007 - 1:45 PM

162 Teams Signed Up - 54% Sold Out!

2007-11-01T09:32:00.000-07:00

Registration Update - November 1, 2007 - 10:35 AM
120 Teams Signed Up - 40% Sold Out!

TransRockies Challenger - October 13, 2007

2007-10-30T15:00:00.001-07:00

2008 TransRockies Registration Opens November 1st

2008 Registration Essentials

2008 Tentative Race Routing

We're Listening - Changes for 2008

Souvenir DVD - Now accepting pre-orders!

Spectrum Imaging Photos now available.

Dan Hudson's photos to be available online

Facts and Figures from the 2007 TransRockies Challenge

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2008 TransRockies Registration Opens November 1st

How time flies when you're organizing the best epic endurance events in the World!

To most of the TransRockies team, it seems like just days ago that nearly 600 racers from 24 countries rolled away from the start line in Panorama, BC to kick off the sixth TransRockies Challenge.

It's actually been two months, during which time the TransRockies Team was hard at work putting on the inaugural GORE-TEX (TM) TransRockies Run, a five-day running event in Colorado. The post-event response to this event in the running community has been nothing short of amazing, and it looks like the TransRockies formula is one which will be as big a hit with runners as it has been with mountain bikers.

With all that on the go, it seems hard to believe that we're now less than three weeks away from the opening of registration for the 2008 TransRockies, and based upon the rapid sell-out and long waiting list for TransRockies VI, we expect that November 1st be see a frenzy of online energy as racers from around the World rush to grab one of the coveted TransRockies team spots.

In the following update we're going to get you up to speed with all the goings on at TransRockies and fill you in on everything that you need to know for 2008 Race registration.

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2008 Registration Essentials

As we have in past years, we're going to open our registration on November 1st but this year we're moving the opening to 10am MDT (UTC -6:00). With the increasing demand for the race spots, it makes sense to us to be in the office and available to answer any questions and concerns from those registering and attempting to register. Plus it lets us get the undisturbed sleep needed after such a busy summer.

Dates: August 10-16, 2008

Field Size: Maximum of 300 teams of 2

Package Pricing:

Adventure Package $1,650 per person + GST The basics-you look after your food and gear, and we give you seven of the best, hardest, most rewarding days of you life.

Epic Package $1,850 per person + GST Everything you need-we provide you with breakfast and dinner, a tent per team and move your gear bags from start to finish each day.

Expedition Package $3,950 per person + GST (limited to 15 teams) Everything you want! An RV with a driver, a concierge to make sure that your travel to and from Calgary Airport is smooth . . . in short, you'll do the TransRockies in style!

Deposit and Cancellation Conditions · Deposit minimum $400 per person/$800 per team · Expedition Package Deposit minimum $1000 per person/$2000 per team · Cancellation fee (before May 1) - $200 per person/$400 per team · Expedition Cancellation Fee (Before May 1) - $500 per person/$1000 per team

1,300

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There was such a positive response to our TransRockies cycling gear in 2007 that we're adding a commemorative TransRockies cycling jersey to every entry package. In addition, we'll have other cool stuff like shorts, hats and armwarmers available for sale throughout the event so that you can reach your full swag quotient.

Full details for each package are available at: http://www.transrockies.com/transrockies/registration/intro.html

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2008 Tentative Race Routing

Though we will be keeping the exact details of our race routing under wraps until the event, we can tell you that we're planning to run our event from North to South once again from the start at Panorama Mountain Village near Invermere to the finish line in spectacular downtown Fernie, BC. Our course team has not stopped working since the end of the event have kept scouting and building new and way to get you through the Kootenay Rockies that are even more fun and scenic than before.

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We're Listening - Changes for 2008

Each year we identify certain areas of our operations and invest time, energy, and resources into improving our event. Normally this means focusing on one or two key operational areas and making sure that we do everything possible to improve our service and execution.

Feedback from our participant surveys is vital to this process and our entire organization takes the time to read through the survey results and comments. If you haven't filled yours out yet, we hope you can find a few minutes to send us your thoughts and impressions and help us continue the process of constant improvement.

One thing we know right now is that our Food and catering options will be an area of major effort for us in 2008. One of the key pieces of input we got from you was to make the food more Canadian . . .and while we're not promising that you'll be eating Buffalo steaks and Maple syrup every day, we're going to be investing lots of energy into our food program for 2008. Additionally, we will announce our catering partner and menu details far in advance of the event.

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Souvenir DVD - Now accepting pre-orders!

We're eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 2007 TransRockies Souvenir DVD. Always entertaining, this DVD captures the excitement and emotion of the event. It is a version of the "videos of the day" shown each evening of the event. To place a pre-order for the 2007 DVD, please visit our online store at http://transrockies.com/cgi-bin/online/storepro.php. The DVD is $44.99 plus shipping. We won't charge your credit card for the DVD until they are ready to ship.

Also available on the online store are the 2007 jerseys, shorts, t-shirts, and other souvenirs.

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Spectrum Imaging Photos now available.

Roger Stermann and his team at Spectrum Imaging has over 25,000 images of TransRockies Riders now available for purchase. Photos are sorted by rider so you can be sure to find some great shots of yourself.

To check out the images, visit the TransRockies page on the Spectrum Images site at http://photo.specimage.com/viewevent.php?id=312.

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Dan Hudson's photos to be available online

Since the beginning of the TransRockies, internationally-renowned outdoor photographer Dan Hudson has been instrumental in capturing the majesty of the TransRockies race and surroundings . . . and for just as long, our participants have been asking how they can get hold of Dan's images.

We're in the process of sorting and editing these images and we will have them up and available for sale through an online photo site. This process may take a little while, but we will send out a bulletin once the process is complete and his spectacular images are available.

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Facts and Figures from the 2007 TransRockies Challenge

Number of riders: 590 Nations Represented: 24 Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ecuador, England, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Portugal, Scotland, South Africa, Switzerland, USA, Wales

Team supporters with race: 400 (approx) Staff and volunteers: 150

Stages: 7

Host Communities: 5

Wilderness Campgrounds: 2

Days Spent without cellular phone coverage: 3

Race Distance in KM: 555

Elevation Gain in Metres: 11,000

Total KM ridden: over 310,000

Total Vertical Metres Climbed: over 6.3 million

Meals Served: over 10,000

Watermelons used: 512

Clif products (bars, bloks, shots) consumed: Over 10,000

Litres of bottled water used: 14,500

Website visits: 71500 unique visits during event

6-year participant prizes awarded: 3

5-year participant prizes awarded: 4

Leaders Jerseys Presented: 84

Stage Medal Presented: 252

Prize Money Awarded: $20,000 CDN

Final Banquet Attendees: 1300

TransRockies VII - August 10-16, 2008

2007-10-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

TransRockies VII - August 10-16, 2008 - Panorama, BC to Fernie, BC

2008 REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 1, 2007

Click here for complete registration details>>

New TransRockies Website

2007-10-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the new website. We will be transferring over all the content from the old site over the next few weeks but will be offering online registration starting November 1, 2007.

TransRockies Challenger

2007-05-25T16:26:00.000-07:00

Here it is, all the latest news from the
TransRockies Challenge!

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In This Issue:

* In Sickness and Health, Good Times and Flat Tires.

* Speaking of Partner Swapping.
* Did No One Want To Share?

* Another Trailside Attraction - Fernie

* How to Experience the TransRockies, Without All the Biking.

* Book your Panorama Mountain Resort Accommodation and Save.

* Still Looking For a Challenge?

* Expedition Spots Available

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In Sickness and Health, Good Times and Flat Tires.

Ask any TransRockies veteran and they'll tell you that
the battle against the elements or landscape is only
part of the story. The real story is your relationship
with your partner. So with the trailside divorces and
partner swapping that sometimes occurs, you have to
hand it to newlyweds Richard Jennings and Catriona
Morrison who will celebrate their July 27th, 2007
nuptials by riding the TransRockies together.

The honeymoon was something of a compromise
according to Richard, "I am the keener mountain biker
and Catriona is the fitter cyclist," he says before
adding, "However, the advantage is definitely in
Catriona's court as I have been off the bike for four
months undergoing back rehab, whilst Catriona has
been getting fitter and stronger by the week. We might
be the only mixed team where you see the bloke being
given a tow!"

And that's not false adulation from a happy groom -
Catriona is the number one ranked duathlete in the
world.

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Speaking of Partner Swapping.

While there's some grand lesson and metaphor for
marriage to be found in Catriona and Richard's
honeymoon plans, perhaps we'll keep three-time
TransRockies champ, Andreas Hestler's habit of
never racing with the same partner twice to ourselves.

We're kidding of course, as few athletes exude the
positive attitude that "Dre" does, and thankfully he is
returning to the starting line in Panorama for his 4th
attempt at the TransRockies podium. This time long-
time friend Kevin Calhoun has signed on as Hestler's
aims to defend his title.

And for anyone who wonders why Hestler seems to
go through partners the way Paris Hilton goes through
millionaires, we're happy to report that the reason is
actually very positive "I just love the race and sharing it
with my good friends," said Hestler about the partner
situation, "Bringing new people to this the newest
form of mountain biking is truly a rewarding
experience, both for our friendships and for the race."

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Did No One Want To Share?

Last month we asked for best suggestions for comfort
items that no rider should leave the start line without -
and the response was well terrible. Either you didn't
want to share your secrets with others or maybe the
question just didn't challenge your creativity.
Regardless, it looks like I won the snappy 2007 Jersey
that was up for grabs and I'll wear it proudly.

To get us back on track, and to keep with the earlier
stories in this newsletter, we want to hear how you
would write TransRockies - themed wedding vows. Or
if the mood strikes you, how you would write a "Dear
Partner" letter to break up on the trail.

Send your ideas, and we'll publish a list of some of
our favourites.

We'll draw from the emails and one lucky person will
WIN a 2007 TransRockies Jersey. Email your
submissions to stephanie@transrockies.com

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Another Trailside Attraction - Fernie

It was maybe the worst moment for every
TransRockies rider - that moment after the excitement
of the mass start and the procession out of Fernie,
when you realize that you are riding out of Fernie and
its bars, restaurants and hotels filled with soft beds
and deep tubs. Well this year, thanks to the reversing
the route, no one will have to feel sad about leaving
Fernie, but rather look forward to arriving to its main
street lined with cheering crowds at the end of seven
incredible days of mountain biking.

This is truly a case of the end justifying the means as
Fernie's world-class attractions and scenery will be
the icing for our riders' adventure. Once thought of as
small, industry town that had a pretty decent ski hill,
since the late 90s Fernie has emerged as one of
North America's great four-season resort towns.

See for yourself what Fernie has to offer at http://fernie.com/activities/intro.html

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How to Experience the TransRockies, Without All the Biking.

Beyond your partner, the most important people at the
TransRockies are the volunteers. These angels of
mercy help boost spirits both along the trail and in
camp, not to mention lending a hand to help keep our
event running smoothly. And, volunteering also allows
for family and friends to be a part of the fun and unique
traveling circus that is the seven days of the
TransRockies. To say thanks for the help, volunteers
receive TR swag, meals and more than a few hugs
from racers along the trail.

If you would like to volunteer, or know someone who
would please contact us at the link below
You'll receive a prize for every volunteer that you recruit!

http://www.transrockies.com/transrockies/about/volunteers.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Book your Panorama Mountain Resort Accommodation and Save.

Call 1-800-663-2929 to book before June 1st for best
rates.
Outside of North America call: 1-250-342-6941

To receive special TransRockies Rates, please book
by phone, not online.

Click Here » to view TransRockies Accommodation
Specials (PDF) http://www.transrockies.com/transrockies/about/accommodation.html

Panorama Mountain Resort Website - http://www.panoramaresort.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Still Looking For a Challenge?

If you didn't get into this years TransRockies Bike
Race before it sold out, or maybe you're just ready for
another challenge, you'll be happy to know that there
are still a few spots available for inaugural GORE-
TEX(tm) TransRockies Run.

From September 16 - 21, up to 150 two-person
teams will stride their way across the incredible Rocky
Mountains in Colorado. For six days, an international
field will cross 125 miles of crimson and gold hued
alpine passes and forested trails between Beaver
Creek, Leadville, and Aspen.

Just like our TransRockies Bike Race, the runners will
race and live together as they experience some of the
most spectacular scenery in the world. And just like
our other events, participants can count on our
dedicated event team, great meals,
accommodations, and on-course support. And
support will be crucial when you consider the 25,000
feet of elevation gain, and altitudes of 12,000 ft that
make up the route.

Be sure to check out the GORE-TEX(tm)
TransRockies Run, just click on the link at www.transrockies.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Expedition Spots Available

Upgrade Today! Limited Motorhome Packages
Available.

Experience the TransRockies Challenge in the
comfort of a motorhome! Due
to popular demand, we have Expedition Spots
Available. If you would like to upgrade your
current
package selection from Adventure or Epic to
Expedition... THE TIME IS NOW!

If you are currently on the waitlist and would like to ride
in this years Sold Out event, there are now a limited
number of Expedition Packages available!

Please refer to the link below for pricing/package
details http://www.transrockies.com/transrockies/registration/intro.html

Please notify registration@transrockies.com, ASAP if
you are interested in the Expedition Package, we will
notify you directly if the spot is yours.

Quick Links

TransRockies.com

Our Partners

Online Store

Contact Us

Event Partners

BikeKootenayRockies.com

Rocky Mountain Bicycles

Sugoi

The Bike Shop

Join our mailing list!

TransRockies Challenger

2006-12-01T16:45:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

This issue of the TransRockies Challenger is full of news about the 2007 event, of interest to both participants and fans of the event. As the end of 2006 draws near, we wish you all the best in 2007. For those of you racing TransRockies next August, may the months ahead be challenging, fulfilling and fun! Season's Greetings from the TransRockies Team!

in this issue

2007 TransRockies Challenge Sold Out

TransRockies VI—North to South in 2007!

About our Start and Finish Locations

Accommodations and Transfers

A Truly International Challenge

Clif Bar Back on Board for 2007

Rocky Mountain Bicycles ETSX: Official Bike of the TransRockies

Custom photo packages available for 2004, 2005, and 2006 from Spectrum!

New European Event: CRAFT BIKE TRANSGERMANY 2007

2007 TransRockies Challenge Sold Out

Long before 2007 registration opened for the TransRockies Challenge, there was a sense that this year, the race would reach capacity more quickly than ever before. After a record-breaking 2006 edition which featured the largest field yet, a brand new course, and a satisfaction rating of 96 per cent, the scene was set for continued strong growth for 2007.

When registration opened at 12:01 am on November 1st, the registrations started pouring in from all over the World and within a few days, 80 percent of the team spots had been taken. The remaining spots continued to fill quickly and on Friday November 17th, the 2007 TransRockies Challenge was declared SOLD OUT.

For the second straight year, the TransRockies Challenge has sold out and this time, the field limit was reached two months sooner than last year. “We’re really gratified to have reached capacity so quickly and we really take it as a testament to the hard work put in by everyone in the TransRockies family,” said Event Director Aaron McConnell. “We’ll take a minute to celebrate it and then get back to work making sure that TR6 is the best one yet.”

TransRockies VI—North to South in 2007!

For the first time in its six-year history, the route of the TransRockies Challenge will go from North to South through the Canadian Rockies in 2007, starting in Panorama Mountain Village and finishing in Fernie. During the seven days of the race, the sold-out field will face some of the most spectacular and challenging riding in BC’s Kootenay Rockies before they roll down the historic Main Street in Fernie to the finish line.

Hosting the finish will be a change for the town of Fernie, which has hosted the start of the TransRockies every year since the event was born in 2002. Panorama Mountain Village will provide a spectacular backdrop for the start as it did for the Finish in 2006, the first time it has been included on the TR route.

Between Panorama and Fernie, the riders will roughly run the well-received new 2006 route in reverse, stopping in the same stage communities as in 2006. All along the course, the TransRockies team will be looking at opportunities for changes that will improve the route in the new direction.

The tentative event schedule is:

August 11, 2007: Registration, Panorama Mountain Village

August 12, 2007: Stage 1 - Panorama Mountain Village to Invermere, BC

August 13, 2007: Stage 2 - Invermere, BC to Nipika Resort

August 14, 2007: Stage 3 - Nipika Resort to Whiteswan Lake, BC

August 15, 2007: Stage 4 - Whiteswan Lake, BC to Elkford, BC

August 16, 2007: Stage 5 - Elkford, BC to Crowsnest Pass, AB

August 17, 2007: Stage 6 - Crowsnest Pass, AB to Sparwood, BC

August 18, 2007: Stage 7 - Sparwood, BC to Fernie, BC

August 18, 2007: Finisher's Celebration Banquet, Fernie, BC

About our Start and Finish Locations

Panorama Mountain Village is a 4-season resort community in the Kootenay Rockies Region of British Columbia with amazing skiing, hiking and mountain biking, including a lift accessed downhill park. The resort has played host venue to numbers World Calibre events including a FIS World Cup Alpine event in November 07.

"It's an honour for the resort, the Columbia Valley and the Kootenay Rockies Tourism region to be part of this world class event. It will be an exciting change for Panorama Mountain Village to be the start venue for the TransRockies. It will present an entirely fresh experience over an intense week of racing," said Ken Wilder, Business Developer for Panorama.

Fernie is a historic mountain-adventure community in Southeastern BC with world-class mountain biking and skiing along with a host of outdoor opportunities. The Town of Fernie will host the Finisher's Celebration Banquet a short distance from Downtown Fernie at the site of the future Blackstone Resort. This event will feature final trophy presentations, photo and video highlights, and live music. Over 1,300 people are expected to be in attendance for the final awards banquet.

"After 5 years of hosting the start of the TransRockies Challenge, Fernie is thrilled to be hosting the finish for the first time in 2007," said Dan Savage of the Fernie TransRockies Society. "We are big fans of the TransRockies, and we can't wait to welcome the riders home to Fernie!"

Accommodations and Transfers

Accommodation specials will be available in for both Panorama and Fernie. We will announce these details early in the New Year. We encourage participants to arrive at the start by the evening of Friday, August 10th.

Mountain Perks will once again be providing transfers for TransRockies participants. Transfers will be available from Calgary to Panorama daily starting the Tuesday prior to the event. Transfers from Fernie to Calgary and back to Panorama will be available following the event. Visit our website for more details on transfers.

Transfer Details...

A Truly International Challenge

Once again this year, the TransRockies Challenge will be an International celebration of cycling with teams from over 20 countries on five continents lining up at the start on August 12th for a week of epic adventure.

As the TransRockies has grown, so too has the diversity of the field and though Canadians are still the single biggest group of riders, 2007 will see over 50 teams from the UK along with a growing number from South Africa and teams from places as far-flung as Hong Kong, Kenya and Israel.

Clif Bar Back on Board for 2007

After coming on board as a sponsor in 2006, Clif Bar is back in as the Nutrition Sponsor of the TransRockies Challenge again in 2007. All the racers in this year’s Challenge can look forward to a wide and nearly bottomless selection of tasty Clif Bar products at all feed zones and finish lines throughout the TransRockies Challenege. www.clifbar.com.

Visit Clif Bar...

Rocky Mountain Bicycles ETSX: Official Bike of the TransRockies

It's only appropriate that the bike brand which has won the last three editions of the race makes the Official Bike of the 2007 TransRockies Challenge. Rocky Mountain Bicycles' ETSX is the official bike of the TR for the second year in a row. BC born and bred, Rocky Mountain Bikes are built for the riding which has made BC the new, true home of Mountain Biking. Visit www.bikes.com to check out the full range of 2007 bikes.

Visit Rocky Mountain...

Custom photo packages available for 2004, 2005, and 2006 from Spectrum!

View Spectrum Imaging's permanently available & online collection of 2004-2006 TransRockies official individual team riding images by clicking on the link below.

Spectrum's TransRockies Photos:

New European Event: CRAFT BIKE TRANSGERMANY 2007

Our European partners have launched the newest event in the family of premier mountain biking stage races. The CRAFT BIKE TRANS GERMANY launches in June 2007.

CRAFT BIKE TRANSGERMANY Website...

TransRockies Challenger

2006-04-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Hello from the TransRockies Team. In this month's Challenger, we talk about some new sponsors, a training camp and lot of other stuff.

Final 2006 TransRockies Spots Released

Kenda and Clif Bar Sign on for 2006

International Flavour at the TransRockies

TransRockies Training Camp Planned

Final 2006 TransRockies Spots Released

In its short history, the TransRockies Challenge has quickly earned a reputation as the most rugged and wild of the multi-day mountain bike epics. With fantastic singletrack, unpredictable weather and wilderness camping, the TransRockies is a unique experience which has drawn and inspired riders from all over the World.

A new chapter in the TransRockies story will open this August when participants in the fifth edition of the TransRockies Challenge roll away from the start line in Fernie to face a new route and a new set of challenges. During their seven days of World Class epic riding, they will traverse through the high peaks of the Kootenay Rockies in Southeastern British Columbia on their way to the finish line at the world- class four-season resort of Panorama Mountain, just outside Invermere. While much of the route is new, the TransRockies will offer the same two-person team format, and wilderness camping that makes it such a unique event.

With the new routing for 2006, the TransRockies Challenge has been able to open registration to a limited additional number of teams, with additional spots first being offered to the waiting list which accumulated once the race reached the initial capacity on January 13th. The deadline for Waiting List registrations has passed and the remaining spots are now being offered to the public on a first-come, first- served basis.

"We're really excited to be able to release a few more team spots for this year's event," said Event Director Aaron McConnell. "And with roughly 15 weeks until the start, we know that there's still ample time for riders to train properly to take on the epic challenge of our event."

For more information, or to register on-line, please visit www.transrockies.com or email registration@transrockies.com.

2005 TransRockies Challenge Acheives 97% Satisfaction Rating

Following last year's TransRockies Challenge, we asked our participants to complete an exhaustive survey to measure our success in improving the event. Over 100 people completed the survey. Here are a few of the results:

• 97% of participants reported that the event was a positive experience.

• 91% reported that the event lived up to expectations.

• 90% would recommend the event to others.

• Only 4% indicated that they would never participate again.

It's no wonder that the TransRockies Challenge has grown so quickly, as most of our participants know someone who has participated in the past. With more improvements planned for 2006, don't miss it... register today!

Kenda and Clif Bar Sign on for 2006

The TransRockies Challenge is pleased to announce our newest 2006 event sponsors: Clif Bar and Kenda Tires. Clif will be our official energy food sponsor while Kenda is the official tire and tube sponsor. Both of these companies have been very committed to marathon mountain biking and we're very excited that they're joining us this year.

Tire selection is crucial in marathon events-- particularly in a race like the TransRockies Challenge which includes everything from rocky, high-speed singletrack, to sticky mud and fire roads. Kenda makes proven performers for every riding style--check www.kendausa.com for more information.

Clif Bar and Clif Shots will be available at every feed station throughout the 2006 TransRockies Challenge so you know that however your ride is going, you'll be fuelled properly. With a wide variety of great flavours, you'll be getting great taste and great energy at the same time. Visit www.clifbar.com for more details.

International Flavour at the TransRockies

The field at the 2006 TransRockies will be our most international ever with representation from over 20 different countries. While Canada and the US again have the most entered teams so far, the UK is close behind with over 20 teams from England, Scotland and Ireland. We have also seen a big jump in participants from South Africa with nearly a dozen teams making the journey long journey. Other countries represented include New Zealand, Brazil, Switzerland, Mexico, Guatemala, Australia, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Israel, France and Denmark.

TransRockies in the Media

We keep getting lots of great press for our little race-- the latest fine examples can be found in Singletrack Magazine #26, Mountain Biking Australia January 06, What Mountain Bike (UK) March 06, and Explore Magazine March 06.

TransRockies Training Camp Planned

Rebound Cycles of Canmore, Alberta has been a long- standing tech support partner of the TransRockies Challenge and they have sent us this announcement regarding a TransRockies training camp they're running this summer.

Looking for the inside edge into your TransRockies experience, or just wondering if you have what it takes for 2007's race? Spend a weekend with your bike, two-time TransRockies Winner Andreas Hestler and 4 time finisher in Coed & Elite Men's categories Ryan Draper. You'll learn what it takes to not only finish the toughest mountain bike race in the world, but excel at it and have a good time. The TransRockies Camp is planned for the Canada Day long weekend in Canmore, so bring the family for a weekend in the Rockies you won't forget! The Camp is open to everyone over the age of 18, but space is limited. For cost and event details contact Rebound Cycle at 403-678-3668 or go to www.reboundcycle.com.

Years of TransRockies Wisdom Available Online

There is so much, physical, mental and equipment preparation that goes into an epic event like the TransRockies Challenge, that even experienced athletes can be left with questions the first time they get ready for the TR. We have an easy and free solution-the TransRockies Challenge Forum.

Not only will you find a ton of past discussions on topics like bike choice, nutrition, and training, but you can also post questions for the keen crew of TR vets who seem to spend all their non-riding time hanging out in the TR Forum.

TransRockies Challenge Inks Shower Deal

2005-05-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

May 10, 2005 - TransRockies Inc. has signed a deal with OK'S Cascade Company to provide a 14-unit hot shower trailer unit for selected stages of the 2005 TransRockies Challenge.

The shower trailer, which will be present at Etherington Creek, Sandy McNabb, and Rafter Six Ranch, is a huge improvement over previous shower arrangements at these locations, including more than tripling of capacity. Other locations already have shower facilities in place.

"We are making a big investment into the comfort and experience of the riders with these new showers," said TransRockies Partner, Chester Fabricius. "We always said that as the event grows, we can afford to take care of the riders better. With the growth we have seen this year, we are happy to be able to provide this service for the participants."

TransRockies Challenge announces Exciting 2005 Route Changes

In a few short years, the TransRockies Challenge has established itself as the one true epic for mountain bikers, with the most technical and challenging riding of any of the major multi-day events. The official stage locations for the 2005 TransRockies Challenge were unveiled this week and, with more singletrack and a return to the Highwood Pass region, the course promises to offer the 350 riders who take part the most awesome, authentic mountain bike challenge yet.

"As the TransRockies Challenge enters its fourth year, we wanted to provide a fresh perspective on the race," said Event Director Aaron McConnell. "The new routing will provide new challenges to past participants and more great singletrack for everyone. It also offers the advantage of being in a town setting for an additional day which means outstanding race services."

Most of the route changes are packed into the first few days ride through the Southern Canadian Rockies. Stage 1 travels from Fernie to Sparwood starting with a taste of the amazing riding which has made Fernie a worldwide mountain bike destination and finishing with a ride along the entire length of the Coal Discovery Trail, a newly-opened 30km singletrack which finishes in Sparwood.

Day Two is a monster of a day that includes two crossings of the continental divide, spectacular high mountain singletrack and a finish in the mountain hamlet of Elkford. Nights one and two are a bonus for the riders as they stay a little closer to civilization with easier access to phones, internet and junk food! Stage three covers part of the 2003 TransRockies route with an epic ride through some of the Rockies most spectacular vistas including a ride over the epic Highwood Pass which tops out at over 2200m.

With the announced route changes, two new communities are ready and excited to host the colourful TransRockies roadshow. "The District of Elkford is thrilled to have a World Class event to showcase our community Internationally," said Elkford Mayor Allan Ackerman while Sparwood Mayor Cal McDougal was equally enthusiastic: "The TransRockies fits with the direction our community is taking", said Sparwood Mayor Cal McDougal. "Utilizing our new Coal Discovery trail for such an event is great". Both Sparwood and Elkford will be geared up and ready to offer an authentic Rocky Mountain welcome to the hundreds of riders from all over the world who will come to take on the Challenge of a Lifetime.

With great new course changes and new host towns, the 2005 version of the TransRockies Challenge will continue to set new standard for epic mountain biking adventure and competition.

2005 Stages

Stage 1: August 7 - Fernie, BC to Sparwood, BC

Stage 2: August 8 - Sparwood, BC to Elkford, BC

Stage 3: August 9 - Elkford, BC to Etherington Creek, AB

Stage 4: August 10 - Etherington Creek, AB to Sandy McNabb, AB

Stage 5: August 11 - Sandy McNabb, AB to Bragg Creek, AB

Stage 6: August 12 - Bragg Creek, AB to Rafter Six Ranch, AB

Stage 7: August 13 - Rafter Six Ranch, AB to Canmore, AB

Ultimate X-Country Challenge 2005

2005-01-01T16:43:00.000-08:00

In the three years that it has been held, the TransRockies Challenge has established itself as the toughest mountain bike race in the world. Other races may cover more days and more miles, or have more climbing, but none combines the grueling week-long epic format with more technical singletrack, remote surroundings and wildly unpredictable weather.

To imagine what the TransRockies is like, think of the toughest, most amazing day you have spent in the saddle then multiply it by seven. Then throw in river crossings, tens of thousands of vertical feet of climbing, ripping singletrack descents, and the support, camaraderie and competition from over 175 other teams. That’s what goes into creating that moment when you roll down the finishing straight on the last day, exhausted but proud to call yourself a TransRockies Finisher.

So, are you in?

Because this year, Race Face, the TransRockies Challenge and Bike Magazine are going to make sure that the ultimate is achievable for two teams of committed riders who have the desire to compete, the creativity to come up with a great story, and the courage to stand up and tell it in front of the online world.

2005 will be the debut of the Ultimate X-Country Challenge (UXC), presented by Race Face, TransRockies and Bike Magazine. The two winning teams will get fully supported entries into the TransRockies Challenge: flights, accommodation, race entries, race support, new riding clothes—the works. Each of these prizes is worth $10,000 and basically eliminates any excuses you may have had for not doing the TransRockies.

If you are one of the winning teams, not only will you have to tell your story to get into the TransRockies, but once you are there, your story will be broadcast online and worldwide via media partners like Bike Magazine and RideGuide. Every smile, grimace, smile and curse will be captured so that the legions who voted can watch you as you tackle the word’s toughest bike race.

If you’re up for the Challenge you can visit www.transrockies.com for more information on the race and www.raceface.com for more information on the UXC.