Stage 1---Fernie to Sparwood

460 riders lined up to start the 2006 running of the Tran Rockies stage race. Included in the riders were four teams from the NW including the teams of Dan Norton/Randy Iddings, Derek Shiers/ Dale Plant, Mel Lewis/Nicloa Mann and Tim Erickson/Troy H.

The first stage from Fernie, BC to Sparwood, BC would be 62km with nearly of climbing. With the weather in the high eighties and little recent rain today race promised to be fast, hot and dusty. After a getting pre-race instruction and a quick 101 on riding in brown and black bear territory the rides jostled for position at check in.

Dan and Randy had a great start position on row 3 just behind the Pro teams. While waiting with less than 3 minutes to Dan Norton rear tires decided to let go due to the high heat on the road. Grabbing Scott rear wheel the change was made and Dan started with the group on a solid bike, but his heartrate was already up.

It took all 460 rides about two minutes to clear the start and head out to the roads leading to the first singletrack of the day.

By the end of the day Dan and Randy placed a very impressive 9th overall and a solid 1st in the 100+| grouping. Mel and Nicola came in at the third female teams and Derek and Dale placed in the top 30 despite heavy cramping and a couple spills by Derek.

Photo Share....















Video of Mass Start