The 2009 Kokanee Crankworx’s new event, the Canadian Open Enduro, is described as the “ultimate all-mountain challenge.”

Taking place on Saturday 15 August, the Canadian Open Enduro is a one-run, mass start race based on individual categories. Kokanee Crankworx organisers expect to see Dhers mixing it up with XC riders on a course that begins at the top of the Garbanzo Express drops 3,800 vertical feet to finish in Whistler Village.

What separates the Canadian Open Enduro from a traditional downhill event is that the course will be interspersed with short, energy-sapping, pedalling sections set to add another 400-600 vertical feet to the race. The fastest race times are expected to be in the 25 minute range.

“This race is the ultimate test for the all-mountain rider,” says Seb Fremont, Summer Events Coordinator. “The course is being designed with significant input from some of the world’s best crosscountry, freeride, downhill and enduro riders. We have consulted with riders including Jason Moeschler, Brian Lopes, Mark Weir, Andreas Hestler, Richie Schley and local ripper Matt Ryan to create a course that provides a stage for riders of various backgrounds and skills to compete on. The winner will be the rider with the most complete package of skills and fitness.”

“While we expect the perfect bike for this race will be a 140-150mm travel all mountain bike, we would not be surprised to see 20lb crosscountry bikes duking it out with 38+lb downhill rigs with 200mm travel,” says Fremont. “That’s the beauty of this event, based on their individual strengths every rider can, and will, approach it differently.”

More at www.crankworx.com