June 10, 2009 (Squamish, BC) – Things are going to look very familiar at this year’s North Shore Credit Union Test of Metal. Race director Cliff Miller announced this week that other than a small change to the end of the course, the race will run as it did last year.

There the self-seeding starting chute first implemented last year will be used again for this year’s race.

Organizers will be sectioning the starting chute into 30 minute time intervals and allow racers to load themselves according to their anticipated finishing time.

“Last year worked really well. The guy coming in at 5 hours doesn’t want to be lined up the rider finishing in 3 hours,” Miller said.

Miller also announced a minor course change for the end of the race. Instead of finishing up Logger’s Creek Trail, the race will take the new corridor trail and enter the finish line from the east rather than that west side of the field.

“We think that this will offer better sight-lines for spectators and the light should be perfect to get photos of finishers as they cross the line.”

As is tradition, ten locally sponsored $100 primes will be available on the course for the first male and female rider to get to that point. In addition, the first place finisher for both the men and women will receive $250. Prizes of $150 for 2nd, $100 for 3rd, $75 for 4th, and $50 for 5th are also up for grabs.

“If someone leads tape-to-tape, he or she could take home at least $1,250.00 That’s not bad for a Saturday afternoon bike ride,” Miller said.

Miller said that trail work in anticipation of the race will ensure a fast course. “If the weather co-operates, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a course record this year. Right now it is extremely hard, dry and fast.”

The Test of Metal, the most successful cross-country mountain bike in Canada, has sold out for the last 12 years.

Events around the Test of Metal are happening throughout Squamish beginning all weekend.

Volunteer opportunities always exist and anyone interested in working on the should register on the website, www.testofmetal.com.

The Test of Metal takes place in Squamish on Saturday, June 20 at 11 am.