Quicksilver Ice Ride challenges cyclists, raises funds for trail development

It was a unique fundraiser to say the least as the Annapolis Valley Mountain Bike Association (AVMBA) hosted the “Quicksilver Ice Ride” at Silver Lake in Lakeville Sunday afternoon. The dozen riders taking part in the dual elimination “Slip and Slide Challenge” had to navigate a one-kilometre, single-track course that event coordinator Barry Bennett described as having “more twists and turns than the Cabot Trail”, including spirals and a figure eight. Optional obstacles to tackle included the “elevated skinny” (a narrow bridge) and a teeter-totter. There were a few wipeouts but most riders showed amazing fortitude in keeping upright on their bikes. Bennett said some riders came from as far away as the Halifax Regional Municipality for the event, the fourth of five ice races scheduled for our region this winter. The fundraiser was held in support of the development of sustainable multi-use, active transportation trails. Club members contributed more than 700 volunteer hours to trail work last year. The association facilitates ride clinics and has started a bike-recycling program where they take in old bicycles, fix them up and donate them back to the community. Bennett said they have two trails in the Valley that are insured through the club. Land access is one of the greatest challenges facing the organization. For more information, visit www.avmba.com. Reporter Kirk Starratt was on hand for the ice ride and files the following video package…