麻豆社区

It's been a month since the Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay, and cyclists are once again preparing for competition.

The Yukon's other long distance bike race 鈥� the Southern Lakes Bike Loppet 鈥� will be held this weekend at Marsh Lake.

This year marks the sixth straight year the 173-km, five-leg relay will be held in the territory.

The race is considered a hidden gem on the local cycling circuit.

Last year, 28 teams and 78 cyclists competed in the event, which features solo riders, two-person teams, and teams consisting of three to five people. Ages represented ranged from 13 to 77.

The race starts at 10 a.m. Saturday. Race bibs need to be picked up between 8:15 and 9 a.m. Cyclists can register up until Wednesday at Cadence Cycle and Icycle Sport.

The race route stretches around the southern lakes, and includes the five communities of Marsh Lake, Tagish, Carcross, Mount Lorne and Golden Horn. The length between each community is considered a leg.

The race starts in a different community each year, and this year marks the first time it returns to Marsh Lake 鈥� the original start line.

Race director Simi Morrison said the loppet was started in 2007 by John Streicker and Peter Heebink.

The race appeals to all kinds of cyclists, he explained.

"It's for professionals and it is for recreational riders and families. We like to accommodate everyone, and it is for sure fun each year.

"We need a lot of helping hands and it is for sure a group effort,鈥� Morrison added. "It's about the spirit and people enjoying riding in the beautiful Yukon.鈥�

Some cyclists have never visited some of these communities, and Morrison said in the past, the towns have put a lot of effort into showing racers what they are all about.

The start and finish line in Marsh Lake will include food alongside a beer garden.

Last year, cyclist Stephen Ball completed the course in 4:53:54. Second- and third-place finishers Spencer Morgan and Thomas Tetz finished within 15 seconds of Ball's winning time.