Canadian Themes Emerge from International Gathering of Mountain Bicyclists

For Immediate Release
06-28-06
Contact: Lora Woolner, IMBA Canada Coordinator

705-429-0213

This release is available in French

The IMBA Summit/World Mountain Bike Conference, held in Whistler, BC, June 20-23, drew more than 400 delegates from 17 nations for three days of seminars and discussions. "This was the first time that the Summit has been held outside of the United States," notes IMBA Canada's Mark Schmidt. "Canada was very well represented, with a strong presence from Canadian clubs, bike industry and members of provincial and federal government on hand to discuss the opportunities we see to promote the healthy growth of mountain biking. And you couldn't ask for a better place to hold this gathering than Whistler, one of the best places in the world to ride a mountain bike."

IMBA Canada Teaming With Parks Canada

Eight staffers from Parks Canada attended the Summit/Conference, including Frances Gertsch, National Recreational Activities Analyst. "Parks Canada is really fortunate to be developing a strong working relationship with IMBA Canada," says Gertsch. "IMBA's expertise is going to be extremely valuable in helping us provide opportunities for mountain biking, in ways that will ensure that our national parks meet our mandate. By working together, both organizations will achieve their goals."

IMBA Canada has been working with Parks Canada on a number of initiatives, including a Recreational Trails and Mountain Biking workshop that took place in May in Jasper (Alberta), and an eight-day sustainable trails workshop in Kouchibouguac National Park (New Brunswick).

Vancouver Advocate James Brown Honoured

James Brown, a dedicated bike advocate and the president of the South Island Mountain Bike Society (SIMBS), received a FOX/IMBA Hero award at the Summit Conference. Brown's remarkable record of volunteerism includes countless hours editing the SIMBS bi-monthly newsletter, planning and building the innovative South Ridge Skinny project, and obtaining more than $15,000 in donations for SIMBS.

"I am honoured to receive this award," said Brown, who happily received a FOX shock onstage. Brown told the crowd, "The FOX/IMBA Heroes program adds credibility to the hard work of those who are out on the front lines creating better mountain bicycling recreation." He also commented on the "positive environment and opportunities for sharing knowledge" at the Summit, and wrapped it up by saying, "I'm having a blast in Whistler."

Canadian Bicycle Industry Supports Access

Canadian bicycle companies showed up in force at Whistler to discuss ways to promote bike access at home and around the world. Leading supporters of IMBA Canada, including Bicycle Trade Association of Canada, Kona Bicycles, NORCO, and Rocky Mountain Bicycles, sent representatives who participated in seminars and led discussions of how to strengthen the bike industry's commitment to the sport.