The seventh annual Urban Polaris mountain biking event takes to streets, parks and trails of Canberra this Sunday, December 3, 2006. An expected 600 riders will set out from the new Stromlo Forest Park with seven hours to search out checkpoints located throughout the city and suburbs and beyond into the Brindabella Mountains. Buildings, lakes, tourist icons, forest tracks, and some other locations will hold the secret as teams of two and solo riders plan their route to maximize their points in the urban mountain bike event.
Local knowledge will certainly help, but 70% of riders will be from other states.
The race appeals to many because riders can take it as hard or easy as they like. The winners will ride over 120-130km on the day while other teams will treat it as a casual ride with a coffee here, a lunch there and gather a few checkpoints to ride 30 or 40km.
Some strong teams are expected this year including Victorian world champion MTB orienteer, Adrian Jackson and partner Shaun Lewis, fresh from his victory in the VAUDE Highland Fling. Multiple winner Julie Quinn will partner with Gary Rolfe for what should be a strong team in the Mixed category. 2005 Women's winners, Gaye Camm/Kath Bicknell will have local knowledge but will be pushed by Martine Robin/Fiona Russell.
