Rainy conditions didn't deter avid cyclists from taking part in the ninth annual Beyond the Valleycliffe of the Dolls (BVOD) fundraiser Friday (Aug. 7).
A total of 40 mountain bikers took to the guided trial riding event, travelling through five peaks in Valleycliffe, which feature a number of very technical trails.
Event organizer Bryan Raiser said the wet weather made this year's race much different than previous years.
"I've always wondered what it would be like to do this event when it's wet and rainy all the way through," he said.
Raiser was proud to report that, despite the conditions, there were no injuries, which he said speaks to the BVOD's no pressure, non-competitive aspect.
However the dampness did make the already technical course even more difficult, he said.
"It was wet enough outside that the rocks and roots were slippery but not wet enough to make the dirt soft," he said.
Participant Tim Fearing said he enjoyed the challenging conditions.
"In the wet weather, this race is a lot better than I thought it would be," he said. "It's still a struggle but it's a lot of fun out there."
Rider Mark Haimes said no matter the conditions, the route still made for a great time.
"It's been a bit of a struggle but it's a really fun ride," he said.
According to Raiser, a number of riders echoed Fearing's thoughts.
"I've had a lot of people come up to me and say this has been the best ride of their life," said Raiser.
"Some of the people who have done this race a bunch of times really like the different feel. I've also had some of the first timers and newcomers say how excited they are to do this again next year."
The event helped raise over $1,000 for 麻豆社国产Search and Rescue through entrance fees and add to that the 50/50 draw winnings, which the winner decided to donate to the cause as well.
Raiser has lead each one of the past nine years' events and said next year - the BVOD 10th anniversary - will likely be the final year he'll be running the show.
"I'm looking for someone new to take over," he said. "I thought making it to 10 years would be a nice run, but somebody at the bar was joking that I should make it 11."
Raiser thanked the many sponsors involved with the BVOD and saying the race wouldn't be possible without their support.
For more information on the event, visit www.sorca.ca.
