Cycling Society Has Big Plans

The North Okanagan Cycling Society is riding into the future with growing support.

The mountain biking group now has over 800 members, many of whom provided volunteer labour to build three new biking trails and to improve eight others last year.

“In 2018, NOCS documented 2,000 hours of volunteer labour to build and maintain trails in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Ellison Provincial Park, Silver Star Provincial Park and Noble Canyon,” says a news release from the group. “In 2018 three new trails were constructed and over 8 trails improved upon by means of brushing, re-routing, drainage and more. Last year also saw the installation of new trail signage at Kalamalka Lake and Silver Star Provincial Parks thanks to a grant from the City of Vernon.”

Vice president Matt Ball says the group has multiple projects in the works including development of the Ranchlands Park above Buchanan Road in 2021.

“The Regional District of the North Okanagan has included a $100,000 line item in their 2021 budget for the development of this new trail system. Other upcoming projects include over 5 new trails and continuation of trail maintenance throughout the year,” says Ball.

In addition to the trail work, the society will continue to host various youth and adult programs including Sprockids, Trail Ninjas and Toonie Rides as well as events.
“On May 2-5 is the third annual Vernon Bike Fest featuring a movie fundraiser night at Towne Cinema, a bike party at Ratio Coffee, an art ride on the Rail Trail, a ‘good old fashioned mountain bike race’ and a demo day.

The society is also hosting the inaugural Liv Bombshell Enduro at Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park on June 22. The events sold out of 150 spots in less than a month.

“People interested in becoming a member and/or volunteering can visit okcycling.com for details.

NOCS, which held its annual general meeting last week, is also seeking sponsors for various programs and events.