April 16, 2010 (Haliburton, ON) – Chico Racing is very excited to announce a new partnership for Crank the Shield, September 17-19, 2010. Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer Resort has come on board as a new start location for Crank the Shield’s signature stage; Stage 3. This new partnership will enhance the overall rider experience by adding 5-7km of fast, flowing IMBA-designed singletrack.

Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer Resort will not only provide a sweet addition of trails, but also a brand new location for starting riders on Stage 3, and improve the start area amenities of Stage 3 over previous years. Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer Resort Program Director Dave Webb expressed, “Sir Sam’s is extremely excited to have one of the largest scale events in Ontario pass through our resort. I couldn’t be happier considering we just started our trail system last summer. I’m very pleased to see how fast everything has come together for mountain biking here.”

“We are thrilled to be adding a style of riding that is new to this area, the fast flowing, and machine made mountain bike singletrack will be an awesome addition for the participants of the 2010 CTS,” expressed Matt Douglas, of Chico Racing.

The stunning vista’s of Eagle Lake will inspire riders as they summit the ski hill, and embark on the final stage of the event. Stage 3 will still include the signature singletrack trails in Haliburton Forest, as riders will be entering Haliburton Forest via the same direction as previous years.

Located in Haliburton, Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer Resort, is a recreation playground, with alpine skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, and lift access XC and DH mountain biking in the spring, summer and fall. For more resort information, and to check out more pictures of the trails at Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer Resort, log onto www.sirsams.com

Participants that register for Crank the Shield prior to April 30th 2010, receive a limited edition Crank the Shield riding jacket, and save 8% by being exempt from the HST.

For more information on Crank the Shield log onto www.cranktheshield.com