October 06, 2012 (Maple Ridge, B.C.) – The sixth annual Pumpkin Cross cyclo-cross race presented by Local Ride Bike Shop in Maple Ridge on Sunday, October 28, promises cycling fan, kids, and racers of all levels a fantastic day of biking and Halloween-themed antics, including costume contests.

“Pumpkin Cross has earned a great reputation over the years. People love it because it’s not just a race, it’s an event,” said race organizer and Local Ride Bike Shop owner Barry Lyster. “The costume aspect has just exploded. Last year we even had Angus Young of ACDC riding the race course while playing his guitar.”

In addition to the festive atmosphere, Pumpkin Cross is famous for its great courses featuring challenging obstacles and spooky décor.

Lyster strives to make Pumpkin Cross inclusive for everyone with a free kid’s race. He is also introducing a simplified category structure this year to give riders of the same abilities deeper and more competitive fields and create exciting and challenging racing for everyone.

“We decided to change our category structure to give more options to women and youth riders and anyone interested in trying the sport,” said Lyster. “The changes will make the quality of racing higher for everyone.”

Despite the popularity of Pumpkin Cross in the community, Lyster was nearly forced to cancel the event due to issues with securing the venue, which uses the North Alouette Greenway and home of the Maple Ridge Equi-Sports Centre, and has been used for the event for the previous two years. After some last-minute negotiations, however, Lyster received permission to run the race in the same location this year.

View the Pumpkin Cross trailer video HERE.
Online registration available HERE.
More info HERE.