July 10, 2009 – Top Canadian MTB XC star Catharine Pendrel (NB) Luna Pro is preparing for a big day on Saturday, July 11 when she faces off against defending champ Marie-Hélène Prémont (QC) Maxxis-Rocky Mountain at the 2009 Tim Hortons MTB XC Nationals for the Elite women’s title. Prémont has been the perennial winner but Pendrel came close last year, so all eyes will be on the two titans of Canadian women’s MTB XC racing.

But Pendrel’s already beaming as her Mom, Johanna Bertin, is a celebrated writer and recently penned Don Messer: The Man Behind the Music published by Goose Lane Editions. While Pendrel currently lives in BC her roots are in New Brunswick and the book launch begins with a personal book signing by Bertin in Fredericton on July 16 with more signings to come (stay tuned).

Meanwhile Globe and Mail fans will likely remember Oliver Bertin (Jo-jo’s brother) who covered cycling for the Globe back in the days (during 1980s) when the national newspaper covered the sport more regularly.

Pendrel herself shares a column in Pedal with top rider and current Canadian MTB XC men’s champ, Geoff Kabush (BC) Maxxis-Rocky Mountain – MTB Front Lines – so now we know where she gets her drive to write (and meet deadlines).