Registration open for B.C.’s annual Pumpkin Cross

Footage from 2011’s Pumpkin Cross from Paul C on Vimeo.

On Sunday, Nov. 1, Maple Ridge, B.C.’s Local Ride Racing will be hosting the 2015 edition of the annual Pumpkin Cross, happening at the North Alouette River Greenway Park. It’s the ninth season running for the event, now one of the more province’s more prominent cyclocross competitions.

Registration, for any interested Lower Mainland riders, is now open.

Beyond being one of the province’s most exciting, technical cyclocross competitions, this highlight of fall gravel riding in the British Columbia region is also something of a festival. Coming at the time of year that it does, Hallowe’en festivities are an appeal for participants and spectators, while other facets of the event make it an inclusive, fun one for kids. There’s a race for children, as well as an adapted wheeled race, thanks to the involvement of the Ridge Meadows Child Development Centre.

As part of the annual cyclocross calendar, though, the profile of Pumpkin Cross is a towering one. A key event of the Cycling B.C. Premier cyclocross series, this six-event competition decides the overall champions in all categories, inviting some of the province’s — and no doubt the country’s — top riders. Additionally, Cycling Canada’s Sandra Walter will also be present, offering a women’s-only clinic on Oct. 31.

Its timing with Hallowe’en, of course, makes it an irrestibly fun event for reasons that transcend the thrill of competition. In a report, the Maple Ridge News quoted race director Barry Lyster as saying, “The costume contest has almost become a bigger component of the event than the race itself. With so many partners on board, I am sure we will see record numbers for the event.”

More details can be found online at localride.ca.