February 8/10 23:38 pm - TransRockies Adds UCI Points & More Prize Money in 2010

Posted by Editoress on 02/8/10
 

In the same year that the TransRockies returns to the majestic Alberta Rockies, it has been granted UCI status - only the second North American stage race to do so - and will offer the most international ranking points in addition to being the best-organized and most epic stage race in North America.

Plus, the 2010 TransRockies, will offer even more prize money to elite teams, with the prize purses for the top teams in the 7-day 2-person team TransRockies and the 3-day solo TR3 topping $30,000 cash.

“2010 is a very important year for TransRockies,” said Event Director Aaron McConnell. “We are returning to our roots in Alberta with an awesome new course that’s more fun, rideable and challenging than ever before. And, given that our team has organized numerous World Cups, applying for UCI sanctioning seemed like a natural next step in the race’s evolution.”

With the points chase for the 2012 Olympic spots about to kick off in earnest, the opportunity to earn some of the over 2500 UCI points on offer should attract some of the top riders in North America to the start line in Fernie, BC.

“Having TransRockies become part of the national calendar along side the other exciting events in Canada this summer, will help to solidify Canada as one of the strongest mountain bike nations in the world!” said Nicholas Vipond, Mountain Bike and BMX coordinator for the Canadian Cycling Association.

The TransRockies brought the concept of mountain bike stage racing to North America and continues to push the format forward, offering the best experience for riders of all levels with a combination of seamless complete support, epic singletrack and real Wild West hospitality.

“While we’re looking forward to a deep and competitive elite field, we’re still completely focussed on making sure that we offer all of our riders the adventure of their lives,” said McConnell. “We’re hoping that the presence of more pro riders just adds to the excitement for our recreational riders. We’re confident that we’re going to set a new benchmark again in 2010.”

The 2010 TransRockies starts August 8th in Fernie and finishes 7 days later in Canmore, Alberta on the edge of legendary Banff National Park. The TR3 runs concurrently with the first three stages of the TransRockies finishing August 10th. For more information on the 2010 TR and TR3, visit www.transrockies.com.