Not only did IMBA Ontario form this year, but they also presented this year's Trailblazing Festival which was held at Hardwood Ski and Bike.
It was my first trip to Hardwood, but even when I shamefully admitted that to Igor at IMBA, he said that it was the first time for quite a few people that day. As awesome as the trails were at Kelso last year, I'm enjoying the 'provincial tour' trying out what each area has to offer and wonder where Trailblazing will head for 2013.
I know I take this type of image every year, but I do get a kick out of seeing so many people get together to share something we all love.
Although I'm sure a lot of riders will miss the hills and drops that were front and centre last year, I for one sure enjoyed the XC trails. I wasn't sure at first as to the depth of trails, but once you get off the sandy main tract, you will find the trails are long, well marked and nicely laid out (although a map/sign here and there wouldn't hurt).
The riders seemed to have a good time judging from the hoots echoing through the woods. I would almost say the riders were too polite too as I couldn't even dismount for a few seconds to snap a photo without someone asking if I was ok. Sheash.
One of the most impressive things I noticed this year was the amount of parents bringing their children to the event. Here, a kid effortlessly tackles the skinnies, ramps and teeter totters provided by Joyride 150 in the Skills Park.
A Pump Track is a new addition (and well enjoyed) that was just created by Mike from Ontario Bike Park Construction, designed by IMBA and sponsored by Blue Mountain.
Rachael and AJ manning the IMBA booth which always has lots of great items. They also lead the trail building school on Friday.
Nice to see my local club, the Peterborough Cycling Club with a table of their own at the festival... as well as bump into some members at the Shimano booth.... who were showing off their Shimano love.
Shimano had a full table of SPD footwear including the 2013 line of MTB shoes.
There was music all day long, Sacred Rides and GORBA Skill Sessions, Silent Sports and NORCO downhill clinics, a Creemore Springs beer garden, a showing of the Mountain Bike movie "Strength in Numbers" and camping, which meant there was no shortage of things to do all day and night.
Plenty of booths lined the entrance/exit to the trails including Sir Sam's Ski & Bike and Adidas.
Mountain Equipment Co-Op was on site to offer tune-ups.
Even Rider Mel showed up (stay tuned for our upcoming interview later this week) to take a spin through the trails.
Thanks to everyone involved for making another great event, and thanks to all of the sponsors for helping this all come together. See you in 2013!