Start revving those engines – motorcycle racing is coming to Bowen Island.
Following a decision at the end of last year by Recreation Sites and Trails BC that left the door open for the use of motorized vehicles on Mt. Gardner – provided they stay off the summit – a local advocacy group set to work planning the inaugural racing event.
“We want to show the motocross community what Bowen has to offer,” says one of the founders of the event. “Mt. Gardner is a local treasure, and now that the government gave us the okay to hit the trails, we’re ready to show it off.”
“The smell of 92-octane fuel and sounds of 600cc engines will only add to Gardner’s beauty.”
The invitational will feature 64 riders competing in a series of there-and-back-again races along the 6 km Handlogger’s Trail. The opening two days, May 21-22, will consist of elimination heats to whittle the field down to 16, with the semifinals and championship race taking place during a Victoria Day grand finale.
Mt. Gardner’s other trails will remain open to non-motorized users during the weekend, including hikers and horseback riders. People are advised to maintain caution however, and cede the right-of-way to race participants who may be using the other trails to practice in between competitions.
When asked whether 15 races spanning 180 kilometres over the course of three days may do some damage to the Handlogger’s Trail, race organizers said volunteers will walk the trail at the end of each day to kick any displaced terrain back into place.
In addition to Bowen riders, competitors from Nanaimo, Port Alberni and the Sunshine Coast have confirmed they’ll be taking part in the event. About 50 spots have been filled as of today’s date, "April 1".
