Kingston Trophy XC Marathon
Where: Kingston, ON, Canada
When: September 2, 2017
Why: Because it's just an awesome event worth attending.
Results: Joël 1st single speed, Jess 1st overall women
This was our third time doing this race. We enjoy it so much we just keep going back. I won't bore you with all the details, I will keep this report short and sweet. If you do want greater detail, check out blog posts from previous years. Just click on the link to get to race the review. 2015 post has a video.2015 Kingston Trophy Marathon Championships
2016 Kingston XC Marathon Championships
So why do we drive seven hours one way which includes sleeping in a casino parking lot just to do this race. Let me summarize for you.
- Awesome course that has a little bit of everything. Pump track, jump line, twisty and turny parts, super rocky sections, some grassy fields and gravel double track. To do well here a rider has to be good at everything.- Riding through a barn. Yup, the course goes right through an old bank barn. When do you get to do that in a race?
- Camping for the weekend at the race site where dogs can roam free. Cliff always has lots of friends to play with all weekend.
- Post race pool party. Everyone hangs out around the pool, goes for a swim, and enjoys the tasty burgers and pasta salad provided by the race.
Well organized and supported race. Course is well marked, ample aid stations, friendly volunteers.- Beer as prizes. Need I say more?
- A pool-side podium in which award winners are expected to jump into the pool. How much fun is that? And when do you get to do that at a race?
- Bonfire and hanging out with fellow racers and the race organizers the evening after the race. Beer, conversation, and fire- a great way to end the evening.
- Overall just a great vibe to this event. Everyone is friendly, chill, and just wants to be out there riding and racing bikes.
Dan Marshall and Substance Projects really know how to put on a great race. It's well worth the drive. We will always look into putting this race on our schedule.
-Jess and Joël
