Thunder Bay – The highly anticipated 2024 Cycling Canada Canadian XCM Championships, proudly presented by Tbaytel, are set to take place from September 5th to 7th, 2024. Hosted by the Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club, this event marks a significant milestone for Thunder Bay by hosting the first Canadian Mountain Bike Championship.

“We are thrilled to head to Thunder Bay for the hosting of this exciting Canadian Championship event. The Cross Country Marathon discipline represents one of the most challenging disciplines of mountain biking, pushing athletes to their limits as they tackle a multi-hour race against the clock on some of the most technical singletrack in the region,” said Josh Peacock, Director, Marketing and Events of Cycling Canada.  “Bringing this event to Thunder Bay for the first time represents an exciting new milestone for both the region as well as Cycling Canada as we expand our presence and ability to showcase some of the country’s best trail networks under the Canadian Championship banner.”

The journey to this momentous occasion has been years in the making, with the Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club diligently planning, building trails, and preparing for this event. Their dedication, coupled with the generous support of Tbaytel, has paved the way for an unforgettable championship experience.

Central to the event’s success is the culmination of trail improvements in Trowbridge Forest, made possible by $1.5 million in funding from the Thunder Bay CEDC, Fednor, NOHFC and support from the City of Thunder Bay Parks and Open Spaces, Recreation and Culture Division for the Master Plan completion. These enhancements not only elevate the quality of the trails but also ensure a challenging and exhilarating course for competitors and spectators alike.

“The 2024 XCM Canadian Championships represent the pinnacle of cross-country marathon mountain biking excellence in our country,” said David Valente, President of the Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club. “We are thrilled to showcase the results of our hard work and the support of our volunteers, and sponsors, especially Tbaytel, who share our passion for promoting outdoor recreation and building stronger communities.”

Registration for the 2024 XCM Canadian Championships is now open, offering riders of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to participate in this premier event. Cyclists from across the nation and in the region are encouraged to visit http://www.xcmtbay.com for more information and to secure their spot in what promises to be an unforgettable competition.