The most competitive enduro race in Canada, as well as the nation’s culminating event for 2021, is coming to Whistler.
To help enhance the accessibility factor of the event, Concord Pacific is offsetting entry fees for financially challenged individuals and families through the Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS), thus allowing more locals to take part.
“We encourage as many individuals and families to take advantage of this offer. It will soon be the only way to access the remaining entries,” explains Jackie Dickinson, executive director, WCSS.
It is the first time in the history of enduro in Canada that the National Championship will be hosted at this iconic venue, which features some of the best trails in the world.
The Norco Canadian Enduro Championship (NCEC), presented by Concord Pacific, takes place Saturday, Oct. 16 (practice day), and Sunday, Oct. 17 (race day), at Sundial Hotel, the event’s official hotelier. The NCEC will be welcoming pro and amateur riders from the U.S., Mexico, Europe and Canada to the event.
One of many reasons why enduro is so popular is its accessibility—whether a pro or a first-timer, anyone with a functional trail bike and a desire to hit the mountain can join in. And while competition is certainly a big part of it, what matters most is having fun.
“The Sea to Sky corridor of British Columbia is home to more enduro racers than anywhere else in Canada, and we are very appreciative to help continue the legacy of enduro racing in Whistler by somewhat reducing the financial burden for aspiring athletes,” adds Dickinson.
The Whistler Off-Road Cycling Association (WORCA) is responsible for maintaining and advocating for trails used during the race. Part of the ethos of the event series is to give back to the local trails, so for this event, every participant is becoming a member of WORCA, which should generate between $12,000-$15,000 in membership revenue.
The enduro racing community is built on the backbone of trail associations, community champions, partnerships and racers, and Concord Pacific is eternally grateful for the support the event has received in Whistler.
The NCEC is a socially distanced event; there will be no mass starts or finishes, and racers will be split into multiple separate events.
Families and individuals between the ages of 12 and 21 looking for financial assistance may contact WCSS executive director Jackie Dickinson via email, at [email protected] or by calling the main office during regular business hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at 604-932-0113.
Registration and more information about the event can be found at www.canadianenduro.com/whistler. Registrants will be able to pick up their timing chip and racer package at the Sundial Hotel during allotted times that have yet to be announced.
