September 7, 2005 – Your front tire strains against the start gate and your hands grip the handlebars like a vise. One foot keeps the balance and the other is ready for that all-important first push that will propel you, your bike and three other riders into the air and onto the four cross track. The walkie-talkies crackle, the starter says “racers ready” and with a heave, the gate is opened. Game on, for sure.

This month, get ready for some exciting four cross (4 Cross) action at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. Local bike shop Mike’s Bikes, are running the series and it takes place on three Sunday’s in September. Jonathan Bonk is the on-mountain Events Coordinator for the resort and is working closely with the staff of Mike’s Bikes. “We first opened the 4 Cross course last summer, just before we held our first BC Cup Finals and the response has been huge. It’s a great course, designed by riders for riders, and we’ve seen some great action on it. ” Bonk notes that the action can be viewed from a couple of vantage points. “The 4 Cross course is located right underneath of the Hawk High Speed Six Pack lift, so there are lots of ‘Hollywood Moments’ during a typical race. Having spectators certainly adds to the event and racers are sure to put on a good show.” To take part in the Mike’s Bikes 4 Cross, either drop into the store, located in Courtenay, or surf to www.mountwashington.ca Registrations take place in the front courtyard of the Alpine Day Lodge and it’s only $5 to race, excluding a daily bike and rider lift pass. There are lots of prizes up for grabs and the races take place on the following Sunday’s : September 11th, 18th and 25th. Other sponsors of the Mike’s Bikes 4 Cross include Powerade, Nokian Tires and Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

Even though Labour Day has come and gone, the Bike Park at Mount Washington is open everyday until October 11th. Some changes to the opening hours have been implemented; The Hawk is open Thursday thru Sunday and the Bike Park is now closing daily at 4 pm. The Eagle Quad Chair, for both bikers and tourists, is open every day, beginning at 11 am. Rentals, both bikes and gear, are available seven days a week.