June 23, 2008 (Kamloops, B.C.) — The Intermontane Challenge, one of the world’s most unique and lucrative mountain bike races, has announced Thompson Rivers University (TRU) will be the core of its food and accommodation program for the 2009 race. The race package will set a new standard in quality, comfort and value in mountain bike racing.

The inaugural 450-kilometre race takes place in Kamloops July 27-31, 2009 and is the only race of its size in the world to feature a single-track, clover leaf design. The distinctive design allows racers to tackle a different part of the course each day while establishing a home base in Kamloops every night. Because of this, TRU has made its apartment-style condo-like residences available for competitors. In addition, the university’s culinary department will be lending their expertise to provide food for racers.

“We were hearing from racers that they are looking for the comforts of home, including better and more accessible food and accommodations,” explains Kelly Servinski, director of marketing for the Intermontane Challenge. “Having a central location for both of these elements means racers will have more time to chill out in the evenings and get ready for their next day of competitive racing.”

Most other competitive races have athletes camping at various points along the route. Servinski says race organizers wanted the Intermontane Challenge to stand out by having everything a competitor would need right on site and by providing a first class level of service.

“The response from the mountain bike stage racing community has been overwhelming,” says Servinski. “People are stoked about our accommodations, location, prize purse and, of course, the amazing single track design.”

The cross-country stage race spanning five days features a purse of $60,000 — three times as much prize money as any race in North America. Adopting the slogan, “200 million years in the making”¦5 days to conquer,” the Challenge is open to 300 competitors from all over the world. It will have categories for men and women and will include solo and two-rider teams.

Online registration for the Intermontane Challenge starts on September 20, 2008 for the 2009 inaugural event. A weekend preview of parts of the course will be taking place this year on September 6.

For more information visit www.intermontanechallenge.com and click on “Register” to see all the details of our packages and prices.