After a long hard day of work, I decided to drive out to Albion Hills in Caledon to check out this years 24 hour Summer Solstice bike race, to see just what it is all about. For those of you who are not familiar with this competition it pretty much goes like this; 2000 or so riders of all abilities take off in a mass start and ride their bikes from 12pm Saturday to 12pm Sunday, the rider who manages to sneak in the most laps within the 24 hour period is the winner.
I have been dying to try one of these competitions for the last couple of years but never quite whipped myself into the shape I would like to be in to complete one. I will tell you one thing, I sure am glad this wasn't the one I would be starting off on. Albion Hills isn't at all whether friendly, when it gets wet, its WET. After a full day of rain, these riders were out riding in about 6 or so inches of pure mud. They averaged 2-3 hour lap times on a 14 km loop.
Though there wasn't too much crazy riding to watch in the dark, it was a great atmosphere to be in. All the big name vendors, Norco, Opus, Shimano and many more were set up around the area providing support. All the riders and teams had their camps set up and it was a big party every where you stepped. If your looking to head out to any event this summer or next, whether it is to ride or just to watch, the 24 Hour events are a must!




Photos By: DaShef; www.flickr.com
For information on when and where these events take place, check out:
www.chicoracing.com
Greg B!
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