September 15, 2010 (Haliburton Highlands, ON) – Chico Racing is extremely excited for the 3rd annual Crank the Shield MTB Stage Race. Over 260 riders will descend on the beautiful Haliburton Highlands Region, for what will be one of Ontario’s most exciting mountain bike races of the year.

This year’s highlights include many of Canada’s top mountain bike riders. In the Two Person Division, a pre-race favourite includes two World Championships Team Canada riders; Tyson Wagler (U23) and Derek Zandstra (both of 3 Rox Racing). Trek Canada has also entered a Two Person Team, which is very capable of taking the top step of the podium. Peter Glassford (2008 overall winner of CTS), and Eric Batty make up this dynamic duo, whom will definitely lift the pace at the front. No stranger to Crank the Shield, and National Team Member Andrew Watson (Norco) has also entered the mix, and should contend for the overall victory in the Solo Male Division. Also, of note is National Team, and Canadian silver medalist from 2010 Canadian National Mountain Bike Championships, Amanda Sin. Sin, a first time Crank the Shield participant has partnered with 2009 Crank the Shield Champion Kyle Douglas to form an amazing mixed team that is very capable of riding at the front of the pack.

For 2010, two-time MTB Olympian Seamus McGrath has returned home to Ontario to ride in this year’s Crank the Shield. McGrath is excited to be a part of this event, as he will be partnering up with various riders throughout the event. Caleb and Ronald Graves (father, son team), will ride Stage 1 with McGrath, Leslie Green and Anne Flannigan will ride Stage 2, and Chris Durand and Tecia White get to ride Stage 3 with the Canadian mountain bike legend.

“This event is shaping up to be one of the most exciting mountain bike races in Ontario this year. We have two-time Olympian Seamus McGrath, National Team riders, and over 260 participants tackling 230km in 3 days. The summer camp accommodations and amenities are set to be top-notch, and with many of our course updates, this year’s event is not to be missed!” exclaimed Chico Racing President Adam Ruppel.

In addition to the incredible field this year, 2010 promises to be the best course as well. The first improvement riders will notice is a large brand new section of singletrack for Stage 1 in Haliburton Forest. For Stage 2 riders get to finish directly at Camp White Pine, which makes the stage more enjoyable by eliminating a bus transfer, and adding more awesome trail. The most exciting trail change for 2010 is the new start location of Stage 3. Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer Resort has become the new start line for Stage 3, which means 7 km of amazing brand new singletrack!

Be sure to follow the action this weekend, as updates will be posted daily, with full results available at www.cranktheshield.com