AIR Riders will compete in the first-ever pump track competition in the valley, August 4th. Photo by Kristian Rasmussen

Submitted by Adrian Bergles

Columbia Valley Cycling Society

The Radium Pump n Jump Bike Park will be a hub of activity on Saturday, August 4th, as bicycle pump track riders take to the land and air to show off their best skills at the Pump n Jump Jam.

Pump track riding is an intense form of cycling where riders gain momentum for jumps and corners by pumping the terrain rather than by pedalling. It is tremendous full-body exercise, a great way to quickly improve cycling skills, and a lot of fun.

Mountain bikers, BMXers, and anyone on a bike is welcome to enter the family-friendly fun competition, which is a grand opening for the recently completed pump track in Radium Hot Springs (pictured above).

The event will also serve as a fundraiser for further development of the Radium Pump n Jump Park.

The competition will begin at 1 p.m. and entry for kids age 12 and under is free. Riders 13 and over will be charged $10 for entry. Registration will begin on site at the Pump n Jump park at 11:30 a.m. and practice will begin before that, at 10 a.m. Riders will be divided into categories based on age and gender and the event will feature a best trick competition and endurance events. Registered riders can ride in either, or both of the events.

There will be music, an emcee, a concession stand, and plenty of giveaways thanks to the generous support of event sponsors.

The Radium Pump n Jump Park is next to the Sinclair Creek in Radium Hot Springs. To get there, park on Forsters Landing Road and walk down to the track, or park at the Sinclair Creek Trailhead immediately to the east of the Radium Canfor Sawmill and walk in. Dont forget your helmet!

For more information about the event, the Radium Pump n Jump Park, or on the Columbia Valley Cycling Society visit www.columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org.

Email [email protected] with any event-related questions.