December 14, 2005 – 2005 was a banner year for downhill racing in Ontario, as anyone who attended a race can agree to. The courses were excellent, the organization was top notch and, most importantly, Ontario regained its sense of community and the spirit of fun that we had been missing in years past. Attendance at races continues to increase in 05, making it the fastest growing segment of cycling, as well as arguably the most exciting.

Yet not everyone seems excited about the growth and success of downhill in Ontario. When the OCA held the Ontario Cycling Association Awards, downhill and 4x was omitted, and essentially ignored. No awards were handed out, despite the growth and momentum that Downhill has gained. Once again, the sport failed to get the recognition it so rightly deserves.

Well, it isn’t being ignored by everyone.

Dropmachine.com, Primary Racing and Sirbikealot Racing have teamed up and have started the First Annual Ontario Downhill Awards. Designed to recognize the riders that so rightly deserve it, the ODHA show that all your training, hardwork and risks are appreciated and most importantly, respected. While the awards are only web based this year they will undoubtedly grow, much like the sport itself, and will soon aim to become THE award for downhillers and 4x racers that compete in the Ontario Cup.

Please take the time to check out the awards at http://www.dropmachine.com/racing/index.php?action=fullnews&id=1 . These racers put a lot of work into their sport, and deserve to be recognized. If the official body won’t do it, then we will.