Crankworx Whistler
The Super Bowl of Freeride Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is synonymous with Whistler. For decades, the evolution of its riding culture was spurred by the technological development of bicycles, an underground movement of trail builders and the now world-famous Whistler Mountain Bike Park. But it was Crankworx (which takes place this year from August 11–20) that shot this ski resort town to summer fame in 2004 and forged the path of freeride mountain biking in the process. There’s now a host of additional events to jam-pack the ten-day schedule, including the Enduro World Series, the Garbanzo and Canadian Open downhill races, the crowd favourite Official Whip-Off World Championships and many more. While Crankworx has grown to a global mountain biking movement with satellite festivals in New Zealand, France and Austria, Whistler continues to set the bar higher with its ever-evolving lineup of events. “Crankworx (Whistler) is where it all began and it’s still the place which inspires everything we do on the World Tour,” says Crankworx General Manager Darren Kinnaird. “We have a stunning location, one of the birthplaces of mountain biking, the number one lift-accessed bike park in the world, and for the fans of Crankworx, Whistler has been home for fourteen years.” Kidsworx is back with a series of family-friendly races and participatory activities designed to nurture the next generation of mountain bikers. The Dirt Diaries and Deep Summer Photo Challenge continue to wow audiences with the cream of local and international talent in mountain bike film and photography. Both screen under the stars at Whistler Olympic Plaza and both are free. Crankworx draws hundreds of competitors and even more spectators. For information on Crankworx, including the 2017 schedule and events, visit whistler.com/events/crankworx/ and while you’re there, book your Whistler summer getaway, and check out the many summer activities Whistler has to offer. We know you’ll be keen to experience as much of Crankworx as you can, but don’t forget to explore the resort too—whether you want to chill out lakeside, explore the alpine hiking trails, or just enjoy the Village vibe, you can find out more about Whistler summer offerings at whistler.com/summer. The final day of Crankworx is its biggest, with thousands of fans shoulder to shoulder at the base of Whistler Mountain for the Redbull Joyride slopestyle event on Sunday, August 20. Believe those who’ve witnessed it: the video replay never feels the same. Whether a mountain biker or not, Crankworx is a celebration you won’t want to miss. Warm up your cheering voice and get ready for mountain biking’s biggest summer celebration.