As Kris Cheney-Seymour toured the Olympic Sports Complex at Mount Van Hoevenberg on Tuesday, he pointed out the seemingly modest patches of dirt and rocks scattered across the ground. To an outsider, these might appear insignificant, but for Cheney-Seymour, they represent a significant milestone in advancing mountain biking in the region. The state Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) is making final preparations for the inaugural WHOOP Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Mountain Bike World Series, set to take place from September 27 to 29.
This event, the first of its kind in Lake Placid, will feature various levels of mountain biking competition, including athletes fresh from the 2024 Paris Olympics. Cheney-Seymour, who serves as the recreation sport and event coordinator at ORDA’s Olympic Sports Complex and Olympic Jumping Complex, reported that construction is approximately 60% complete. The course is expected to be finalized by the end of August, following a final inspection by UCI officials. Any necessary adjustments will be made before the event begins.
Mount Van Hoevenberg is one of 15 global venues hosting this series, which spans 10 countries across three continents. The Lake Placid event will commence on Friday, September 27, with a cross-country short track World Cup for both men and women in the U23 division. The following day will feature the UCI cross-country Olympic-distance World Cup for the U23 category, while the event concludes on Sunday, September 29, with a marathon distance World Cup and an Olympic distance World Cup race for elite men and women.
The 4-kilometer (approximately 2.5 miles) course integrates sections from existing ski trails used during the 1980 Winter Olympics. The start and finish lines will be located within the biathlon stadium area. Cheney-Seymour emphasized that the course design utilizes only native materials from the site, avoiding any non-local imports. This approach includes repurposing boulders and soil from nearby projects to maintain environmental integrity.
Noteworthy features of the course include elements inspired by Lake Placid’s sliding track heritage. The descent into the stadium is designed to simulate the experience of a sliding track. Additionally, the course includes playful elements such as two lean-tos, which riders will navigate through during the race. The area will be monitored by marshals, and a bonfire with Adirondack chairs is planned for spectators.
The course’s design incorporates challenging elements, including multiple lines with varying risk-and-reward options and two uphill climbs of different steepness. Cheney-Seymour explained that choosing the steeper climb with the right speed and transition can significantly affect performance.
Organizers anticipate a substantial turnout, with an estimated 1,000 to 1,500 attendees on Friday, 2,500 to 3,000 on Saturday, and up to 5,000 on Sunday. To enhance the spectator experience, the course is designed to be highly visible from various vantage points. Hiking trails and the reservoir will offer excellent viewing opportunities. A shuttle service will transport attendees from North Elba Show Grounds to Mount Van Hoevenberg on race day.
In addition to the competitive events, Swedish athlete Jenny Rissveds, a bronze medalist from the 2024 Paris Olympics, is planning a community initiative in partnership with ORDA. The proposed children’s drive aims to engage 30 elementary and middle school-aged children, offering them a chance to interact with professional riders and participate in a bike ride.
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