The Crankworx Summer Series returned to Sugarloaf Provincial Park in Campbellton for its third consecutive year. This weekend, more than 500 mountain bikers from across Canada, the United States, and Europe descended on northern New Brunswick to test their skills. As reported by CBC News, the festival drew massive crowds to both the provincial park and the downtown core.

New Challenges on the Trails

Organizers expanded the competition this year. Tourism New Brunswick festival developer Marilyn Lavallée noted the addition of two new disciplines. Riders competed in an enduro ebike race and a pumptrack event. These joined traditional favorites like dual slalom, slopestyle, downhill, and cross country racing. The Downtown Big Air event also brought the action straight to the city center, giving you a front row seat to high flying acrobatic tricks.

Riders and Fans React

The varied terrain tested the competitors. Keon O’Brien, a rider from Vancouver, decided to try new disciplines this year. “It’s challenging,” O’Brien said. “It’s much different than what I’m used to as a slope cell rider, but it’s very fun.” Spectators shared that enthusiasm. Louise Kingston, a 66 year old local attendee, wants to see more events like this in the region. “The bumps and jumps are out of this world,” she said.

Safety and Youth Involvement

Keeping hundreds of extreme athletes safe requires a dedicated team. Brigitte Bernier, a member of the bike patrol crew, acted as a first responder. “My role is to be sure that early in the morning every trails are safe and if an injury happen will be the first responder,” Bernier explained. Trail crew team lead Serge Landry and his team worked hard to prep the courses, ensuring everything from the pumptrack to the downhill runs was clean and ready.

The festival also focused on the next generation of riders. Lavallée highlighted four specific events designed for children. “At Sugarloaf, we have four kids works events to get the juniors kind of involved into how to mountain bike and how to be safe and all of those tips and tricks,” she said.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Crankworx Summer Series?

It is an international mountain biking competition featuring various racing disciplines and skill showcases.

Where does the Campbellton event take place?

The event happens at Sugarloaf Provincial Park and in downtown Campbellton, New Brunswick.

Who competes in the festival?

Over 500 mountain bikers from Canada, the United States, and Europe participate in the races.

Are there events for children?

Yes. Organizers host specific events for kids to teach them mountain biking skills and safety tips.