June 10, 2006 – After a record sell out of 4 hrs. and 19 minutes more than six months ago, the 11th Annual North Shore Credit Union Test of Metal is just a week away. The course is in top-notch shape; this should be another fabulous year.

The Test of Metal is part of the grass roots of “Hell of a Series” (along with the Rat Race and the Gearjammer). There are once again 10 primes on course with $100 for the first man and woman to reach that spot. No other cash prizing will be awarded until the winner of the “Hell of a Series is determined July 23. The last race of the “Hell of a Series,” The Gearjammer, is beginning to fill up. Only 500 riders will be allowed. Register at www.gearjammer.ca.

There are no trials competitions this year, but on Friday night there will be a BMX demo and an artisan village at Garibaldi Village Mall hosted by our title sponsor, the North Shore Credit Union.

On Sunday, Corsa Cycles will host the Mini-Metal for 4 to 8 yr. olds from 9-noon at Station Square Mall.

Tantalus Bike Shop will once again sponsor the Rock Star downhill at 2 p.m. in Valleycliffe’s Raven Plateau. Prior to the start of Rock Star, a group of motorized trials riders will be showing off their acrobatic prowess going up the same trail the downhillers come down on.

The Test of Metal is not-for-profit organization. All of those involved with the organization of the race are volunteers, and the race all funds go back into the community.

The organizing committee and the 350 volunteers strive to hold the best mountain bike race in Canada.