BC Bike Race Day 4, 2024. LAKESIDE STAGE FINISH

Is there any better way to end a race on a hot day than with a cool swim in the lake?

After a 36.7 kilometre pedal through the forests just outside Nanaimo, racers descended to Westwood Lake—a popular summer chill out spot in this mid-island city—and enjoyed a refreshing swim or a quick dip.

MOVING DAY

Today was a long day for both crew and racers. We had a 9 am remote start 45 minutes north of our Crofton basecamp, followed by a move to our Cumberland basecamp. So the screaming chicken needed to rouse everyone at 5:45 am to ensure enough time for breakfast and packing up.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Before racers rolled out to the trails, we thanked Mosaic Forest Management for providing access to private managed forest lands for today’s stage. We presented them with a $3,000 donation to Tillicum Lelum Friendship Centre and another to Cumberland Community Schools Society

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

Of course, we also needed to mark our neighbour’s special day. Johnny Rock made a special appearance with his electric rendition of the Star Spangled banner before we sent racers off into the forest.

ON COURSE

With fewer kilometres than yesterday and slightly less technical terrain, Nanaimo offered a modest reprieve for racers unaccustomed to British Columbia’s rocky, rooty mountain terrain. But with higher temperatures than in the previous 3 days, Nanaimo demanded that racers pay careful attention to their hydration.

Returning to the start line at John Barsby School, many racers had big smiles and were saying this was their favourite day so far.

APRES

After all the riding was done, riders had a chance to relax with a beverage from Vancouver Island Brewing, socialize and cool off at the misting station.