Huntsville’s roads see many cyclists in the summer months, but come winter there are only a few hardy enthusiasts who continue their two-wheel commute or exercise on local streets.
Local trails are a different matter. With the relatively recent advent of fatbikes—think mountain bike with much wider tires—those passionate about cycling could take to mud- and snow-covered trails with more ease. And now, thanks to a new event hosted by the Huntsville Mountain Bike Association (HMBA), fatbikers can also test their skills on Huntsville’s Main Street.
On Feb 22, the inaugural Muskoka Fatbike Race will be held in downtown Huntsville. Snow is being trucked to Main Street for the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association’s (OFSAA) Nordic ski championships, which will see high school students from across the province competing. SnowFest, the creation of the Huntsville Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, and the Muskoka Fatbike Race are taking advantage of the unique opportunity that the snow provides.
The Muskoka Fatbike Race will have five categories—Competitive Open Men and Women (45 minutes plus two laps to finish), Recreational Open Men and Women (30 minutes plus two laps to finish), and Youth 13 and under (15 minutes plus two laps to finish). Chip timing will ensure accurate and fast results. There will be medals and prizes for all categories; if registration numbers are significant enough there will also be cash prizes for the competitive categories.
The course will be groomed and will be open and free for all riders before the event, says HMBA president Buck Miller.
Learn more and register at huntsvillemountainbike.ca/
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(when are we…change?) exactly…so when it snows some roads remain closed 2 automobiles all season & used for wintry purposes
@ lets b creative
I support the race, but not on Main Street with tonnes of snow having to be trucked in and removed. The Co2 and other gases spewed out by the equipment required for this process doesn’t justify the expense or pollution produced. When are we going to get serious in Muskoka about climate change?