The 16th Annual Fat Chance Mountain Bike Race and Poker Ride is coming soon, Sunday September 19th. It¹s time to start thinking about whether you will take on the challenge of the race course or are you feeling lucky with the cards and want to sign up for the Poker Ride. Either one promises to be yet another extraordinary day on your mountain bike in the great outdoors of the Comox Lake area.

Racers get ready for the fast and furious lap route, which will be challenging and fun. Race Director Simon Brampton was intent on making the course user friendly, especially for younger riders and those new to mountain bike racing. The course is tight and twisty, lots of logs and roots but not too much of the hill climbing or steep stuff. Non-stop action and varying laps will be assigned to each category accordingly. Comox Fireplace and Patio has upped the ante for adult racers by offering a BBQ draw for all entered adults in the Race.

Eight kilometres of beautiful, well groomed trails on the east side of the Puntledge River will once again be the route for the Poker Ride. Thanks to B.C. Hydro¹s community spirit and cooperation we are delighted to be able to utilize these trails. Those new to the idea of the Poker Ride should understand that this route is suitable for all levels of ability and ages. Time is of no consequence to the winners of the Poker Ride. Riders need only follow the designated route, collect their 5 cards from the 5 friendly dealers along the route and the best 3 Poker hands take home the prizes. But there are also many many draw prizes from our generous sponsors In addition, all Poker riders under the age of 12 are automatically entered into a free bike draw.

Why not make this year, your year, to do the Fat Chance Poker Ride with the whole family. Entry forms are now available at your local sponsors: The Record, Hi-Tec Screen Printing, Hot Chocolates, Mountain City Cycle, Water Pure and Simple, Comox Fireplace and Patio, Blacks Cycle, and Simon¹s Cycles. Registration is available until 12:00 noon Saturday September 18th at the Comox Community Centre.

Fat Chance organizers would like to extend their appreciation to BC Hydro and Timber West, for it is their property and their efforts that have made this area, a very special little piece of paradise accessible to all.

Enter for either one of these fine events soon. The famous Fat Chance t-shirts are optional on the entry, but you know you¹re going to want one. Volunteers are also needed to help out on this fine event, Sunday September 19. If you are able to spare a few hours, to enjoy some time in the outdoors, and for further information regarding the Fat Chance, please call the Comox Community Centre at 339-2255 today. All in all it¹s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with the family and friends.