Shopping, Trials & Tribulations in Crumpit Woods, BC

Posted on September 23, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

I think I have a bag fetish. A camera bag fetish to be exact. In preparation for my first big trials off-road ride in BC I marked the event with a few new purchases shopping for both myself and my trials bike for the unknown ride in Crumpit Woods. And by unknown I mean just that. Riding new terrain, in a new province, in an area that my good friend Jon Mutiger had never been to.

To start off my new adventure I decided to purchase a Lowepro Flipside 15L Sport Backpack which came the day before my ride. I needed a camera bag that would allow me to bring one pro camera body with either 1-2 lens and an external flash. I also needed a bag where I could store a few non-camera essentials such as bike tools, spare spark plug, some food, my phone, a point & shoot camera and some water. Water proof capabilities, adjustable straps and easy access were also high on my list. The Lowepro did not disappoint. It rained throughout the entire ride and the inside of the bag remained dry thanks to it’s external rain cover. The beauty of the bag though, and ultimately what sold me on this model, was how easy it is getting my equipment. I was able to stay on the bike, swing the pack around and grab my camera through a unique rear panel. Genious!! My only complaint would be the zipper system, and the waist band. I would prefer seeing a more rugged and waterproof system to keep out dirt, and dust as well as a padded waist belt.

My second purchase was for my bike. No longer wishing to carry extra fuel in my back pack I purchased an Acerbis Auxillary Fuel Tank for my Gas Gas TXT 200 Pro. This also meant that my camera equipment would be that much safer as I never really liked packing pre-mix along side. A relatively inexpensive addition ($99 plus free shipping from MX1) the tank, despite it’s garish looks, functioned flawlessly, providing me with an extra 3L of fuel (bringing the total up to 6L for me to play around with). The idea behind the tank is rather simple as the gas is drawn from the auxillary tank first and once empty it would take from the OEM tank. I should note though that I lost my breather hose in one of my ‘few’ falls. Victim of the trails I suppose.

So, it became quite clear that my first off-road motorcycle ride in BC was going to be a wet one as the weather man correctly forecasted foul weather. No matter…I was pumped and a ‘little’ rain did not damper my spirits as my friend Jon and myself headed towards Crumpit Woods just outside Squamish. The main trail head is in a new subdivision. Various mountain bike groups were assembled and ready to ride when we pulled up with our two Gas Gas’s on the trailer. No questions were asked or eye brows raised.

After checking the map and being gleefully delighted at all the trails available we hopped on and began our trek into what became a maze of never-ending trails. Meandering across the forest, the terrain varied in elevation and continued to twist and turn across rock and root infested trails in one area, and smooth, flowy turns and straights in another area. As we gained elevation the paths led us up steep granite hills. I tempted a few, fell, and than happily watched Jon as he gracefully manoeuvered his bike up and over the slick rock. I won’t bore you with the details of my falls but will tell you that my ego was bruised and I need to replace my front fender, bracket and possibly handle bars after a few newbie moves!

I followed Jon as I clearly had no clue where I was going. We had a blast exploring and thought at one point he was going to run out of gas, or me having to drag my bike out of the woods due to a mangled front end – details not available 🙂 Click on this link to see our route as recorded by Jon’s phone: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B8Oj9VklLPwjS0NhMERYem1sdWM/edit?pli=1. I’m not sure how long we rode for nor the distance. I did go through approximately 3.5 litres of gas riding at a slow to medium pace.

Despite the wet rock and terrain I was amazed at how well the trails held up and how little mud there was. Being my first ride in BC I cannot tell you if there is a better trail to ride on a rainy day but I can say with certainty that Crumpit Woodss is a great place to ride in the rain with great traction and no wear and tear on the trails. Our faces weren’t even mud speckled! I will be back to visit Crumpit Woods again.

Thanks to Jon for a spectacular day. It was great to ride with him again!! Next up is a ride on my big bike with Kellee Irwin. I do not know where she will take me but I do know I am in for another great day of riding 🙂

© Cecile Gambin Photography — Look for the black dotted lines, the solid purple lines and the purple dotted lines. Now check out the legend below!!

2013 Algonquin 2 Day Ride Photo Report

Posted on June 17, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

The 2 Day Algonquin Ride is best known for being a difficult trail ride and this year was no exception as the recent rains created numerous mud and water holes. Part of the KTM Trail Ride Series, The Algonquin, or The Madawaska Ride, features the best of Ontario from unforgiving Canadian Shield to flowy pine tree sections to endless water holes. A must-do ride that should be on everybody’s bucket list.

For event photos please click HERE and scroll down to the bottom to find the albums.

Beautiful blue skies prevailed Saturday treating the riders to spectacular views and stunning Ontario scenery as trails led past slabs of granite rick, lakes and rivers. Sunday was equally as beautiful. Sadly though, the rain began shortly after 6am and did not ease up until noon. I will admit to having thoughts of calling it a day and heading home early to celebrate Fathers Day but decided to stick it out. And, I am so glad that I did because some of my best photos were taken early Sunday morning. I thank all the riders for sticking it out on this cool, wet morning.

Haliburton Trail Riders put on an exceptional show. Typically Saturday is the hardest day with over 150 km of trail and access roads covered. Optional route lines allow beginner to expert riders to choose the trail of their choice with respect to their ability. Sunday is the easier of the two days with approximately 100 km of trails. Having said this, Sunday might be easier technically but it does not fall short on the beauty scale as riders are treated to quiet winding dirt roads and lush single track.

© Cecile Gambin Photography-2 — Looking down the easy part of the first pink section on Saturday – the Extreme uphill rated at a 5/5. Lots of people trying – some made it and lots didn’t. Great entertainment for those watching below on the snowmobile bridge.

A huge shout out to all the volunteers for the countless hours they put in to get this trail ride ready in time. Rain or shine - it doesn't matter - they are working hard to showcase our beautiful trail system and wonderful sport. — A huge shout out to all the volunteers for the countless hours they put in to get this trail ride ready in time. Rain or shine – it doesn’t matter – they are working hard to showcase our beautiful trail system and wonderful sport.

Lots of wildlife to be seen. Found this moose wandering this swamp off Highway 127.

Found this Snapping Turtle on the side of the dirt road early Sunday morning - apparently enjoying the rain showers more than me. — Found this Snapping Turtle on the side of the dirt road early Sunday morning – apparently enjoying the rain showers more than me.

Just one of the many demanding mud holes Saturday.

Taking a break on this slippery off-camber, root infested hill made difficult by the rain.

© Cecile Gambin Photography-13 — In driving rain only 14 km separate these riders from the finish line.

Hi Guys - Thanks for braving the weather and saying hello :) — Hi Guys – Thanks for braving the weather and saying hello 🙂

See you next year for another edition of this classic Ontario Trail Ride!

SCORRA Ladies Training Day 2013

Posted on June 13, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

It was all thumbs up for the SCORRA Ladies Training Day. A day filled of learning, bikes, laughter and good food is always an great day. Thanks to Jenn Cole for organising this years event and to Todd and Angie for graciously hosting, and building, the track, log section, mud pit – basically our entire training ground. My goal for this year was to build on what we had been working on over the last few years and gradually increase the level of intensity and difficulty for the advanced riders.

Again, we had the use of the entire field and Todd did an amazing job of building what we asked for. Having a large open grassy (and muddy in some areas) is always a great idea for teaching offroad clinics as it builds confidence and is safe. We divided the group into three according to ability and comfort level. Megan took the beginners and ran them through a series of skills and drills. By the end of the day their comfort level had increased ten fold. Some even graduated into the intermediate group by the afternoon! Jaime, Tammie, Melanie and myself took the intermediate to advanced groups where we worked on getting the front wheel airborne, gradually progressing them over logs of various widths, mud, jumps, berms (both the offroad and the mx way), and turning the bikes at either a slow or fast speed. As always it was great to work with experienced instructors: Megan Grummet, Jaime Kowitz, Melanie Lamoureux, and Tammie Wilson.

By the end of the afternoon I took out my small point and shoot camera and managed to grab a few photos. I decided to leave the big camera in the bag so I could focus on the instruction. We will just have to meet for a ladies ride and I’ll break out the real camera then 🙂

I do have a few more photos and was running out of room to upload them all on this blog. Email me with your bike and name and I’ll fire off a photo for you (intermediate/advanced groups in the afternoon only – sorry can’t be in 2 places at once). It was great to see everyone…many returning and lots of new women riders out there. See you next year.

Albalea – Offroad Ontario XC #4 Photo Report

Posted on June 9, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

Today I could not ignore the sheer beauty of the 4th installment of Offroad Ontario’s XC race at Albalea. To view or purchase event photos please click HERE and, if you are on FaceBook please feel free to visit my page at Cecile Gambin Photography for updates.

A little bit of mud was found among spectacular scenery. The raw beauty, lush vivid green plants, majestic trees, moss covered rocks and slabs of Canadian Shield that graciously lined this property reminded me of the infamous ‘North Shore’, BC and I was giddy at having this wonderful opportunity to photograph here. Everywhere it was eye candy – I didn’t know where to begin and realised that another trip here in the future is a must.

This race was both good and bad for racers and myself alike. Good news – if you raced and finished this puppy you’ll end up a stronger and better rider. Bad news – many riders succumbed to the physically punishing mud pits that grew in size as the races progressed. For me the good news was the action and the shooting in a photogs dreamscape. Bad news – I had a equipment malfunctions as my big flash did not want to talk to my small flash which resulted in several misfires and a few flashy pics in the morning class. I suspect there is more than just ‘anger’ issues with my equipment.

I also apologise in advance on the handful of photos I was able to take of the afternoon race as time slipped faster than expected…I got lost while taking a shortcut back to the start line which took me in the wrong direction resulting in much wasted time.

I was lucky enough to pre-ride most of the course as Andrew Ralph and his wife Kelly graciously lent me ‘Lucy’ – her KTM 105. I eagerly jumped on wearing my bicycle helmet and rubber boots as that was all I had with me. With flailing feet I came back grinning ear to ear with what has to be one of my most memorable rides in a long time. Despite the 105 bogging down a bit at lower revs, it was nimble, light, easy to handle and at the perfect height for me. On the pipe the bike sang. If I had a million dollars I would have a few bikes and this one would find a home in my stable quite easily.

Another huge shout out to all the volunteers, BMA, Woodys and OO for another successful race. Alabalea has the reputation of being the hardest race on the circuit and the 2013 edition did not disappoint. In fact, I think it will remain one of the hardest races for a long time as riders at all levels endured fatigue at all stages of the race. A big thank you to Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Seniors (grandma and grandpa), their son, and his son Andrew for graciously inviting us to race on their gorgeous property.

Finally, congratulations are extended to all racers for having endured this tough as nails race. Good luck to everyone tomorrow at Free Flow MX – I will not be there as I will be busy prepping for my sons birthday party later that day.

By the afternoon race the holes were deep enough to swallow front wheels.

By the end of the race (or during for some) this is what most riders did.

Pro Men Podium: Leonard Loic 3, Brian Wojnarowski 1, Josh Long 2. — Pro Mens Podium: Leonard Loic 3, Brian Wojnarowski 1, Josh Long 2.

Offroad Ontario & NTR Colborne XC Photo Report

Posted on May 19, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

It’s official – The 2013 Offroad Ontario’s XC season has begun with a very well organised and fun course hosted by The Northumberland Trail Riders (NTR).

For event photos please click HERE.

Hamming it up before the start of the afternoon race.

As always, I thank you very much for stopping by my blog and hopefully reading it, saying hello on the trails and for your support. Your purchase allows me to service my photography equipment – nothing is impervious to dust and rain – as well as to help me get to the next race. I take my photography very seriously and I strive to capture the essence of riding and racing while showcasing our beautiful province. Photography to me is an art form and riding is just plain fun!

Over 175 riders came out to the first OO race of the season.

New timing system that even allows us to check out the action live via mobile device!

While pre-riding Saturday night this friendly horse came up to me and posed for a short photo session. — While pre-riding Saturday night this friendly horse came up to me and posed for a short photo session after he had his fill of nuzzling my helmet. Guess he was looking for carrots!

Ripping up the trails with Ladies A rider Jill Carney.

Racing through a barn makes this one classic, and fun, event. Thank you to the Cochrane's for inviting us over to your beautiful property!! — Racing through a barn makes this one classic, and fun, event. Thank you to the Cochrane’s for inviting us over to your beautiful property!!

As always, kudos to all the OO, NTR and countless other volunteers for having made this race a reality. Rider feedback was very positive with quite a few saying this was their favourite race venue!

Cecile

Getting Schooled with Trail Tours, OCMC and ODSC

Posted on May 11, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

It was a busy day at the Ganaraska Forest as OCMC, ODSC and Trail Tours held three different schools on May 11, 2013. CGP was on hand to catch the action for all three groups.

All event photos can be found HERE. Click on the 2013 album and find the appropriate album according to your instructor.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to ride a bike and don’t have the equipment you owe it to yourself to check out Trail Tours. Steve Weycamp, owner, and his staff offer excellent instruction catered to the beginner right up to the seasoned rider looking for tips on how to become a more efficient and faster rider. This weekend, Trail Tours hosted ODSC as well as their own group for on-hand riding clinics.

OCMC Enduro School Rider, James, learning the secrets to riding like a pro.

OCMC also offered a clinic geared towards the enduro rider. Brian Wojonarowski, John Head and Blair Sharpless led riders through various skills teaching the finer points of riding enduros with the ultimate goal of becoming a faster competitor. This was a perfect lead into Sundays Mini Pine, an 85 km enduro and second race of Offroad Ontario’s Provincial Championship Enduro Series.

Eager Trail Tour Riders waiting for instruction and their Honda ride.

As for CGP, well I ended up racing the Mini-Pine as I realised I forgot a key component to my flash as I was driving along the 401 Sunday morning. In reality I could have taken photos without the flash but I knew we’d be deep in the woods and really wanted the colours to pop. And, frankly, I don’t do half-a$$ jobs so if I’m going to do something I do it right. Making my decision to race an easy one. And boy, did I have fun!! Plus, my friends, and fellow off-road instructors Jamie Kowitz, Tammie Wilson and Allison Grummet were there in full action. These ladies can shred!

Kudos to the Offroad Ontario and OCMC crew for putting together a great race. I believe over 200 riders came out regardless of the wacky weather and were greeted by lots of rocks, roots and whoops. Fun stuff! Although I will admit that my triceps are sore from the deep whoops.

Photo Credit: Mark. Mini Pine 2013 Ladies A – Tammie, Cecile, Jaime

Next up is the first XC race of the season in Colborne, Ontario. Check out NTR’s website for more race information. CGP will be on hand with camera this time so clean that bike and gear and smile for the camera!

Trials with Jordan Szoke and Dan Johnson

Posted on April 29, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

Jordan Szoke and Dan Johnson are numbers 1 and 2 respectively in Canada, and I was stoked to have them as my trials instructors this past weekend.

Organised by Bob Billyard, the skills clinics were held for novice to advanced riders and included a mixture of young, and the ‘young at heart’. The advanced session was held Saturday while the instruction on Sunday was reserved for children, and novice trial riders. Although I consider myself a seasoned veteran with some decent skills on the trails I would not classify myself as an advanced trials rider, and so chose to attend Sundays instruction. I have owned a trials bike for over 10 years (funny enough – it used to belong to Jordan’s dad) and have dabbled with trials here and there. The majority of the time though I simply love to ride my trials bike through the trails for it light weight, excellent traction and fun factor.

The ratio between instructors to riders was high insuring participants a high level of learning. I did not know what to expect and came into the clinics wishing to boost my confidence level and up my skills, especially clutch control. Combined with a great practice area and a high quality of instruction I was able to achieve my goals. The track set up was great – allowing us to grow with each new set of drills. There were easy lines and more challenging ones – logs, hills, rocks, boulder, sand, off-camber lines, more logs, tight tree turns were some of the obstacles for us to use.

My personal hang-ups was the log at the top of the short but steep hill which caused me to flip my bike with me tumbling back down the hill breaking my kill switch and ripping off my rear fender in the process. There was also the rock face we had to climb – it was a small rock but large enough to spit me off my bike. Despite this school has never been so much fun.

Lunch was included and during our water breaks Dan and Jordan turned on the heat and gave us a wicked side-show. The only better ones to watch were the young kids zooming, and hopping along on their OSSA electric bikes. It was cool to see both our current and our future riders in action.

A huge thank you goes to Bob Billyard for organising the clinics. Bob is a distributor for OSSA trials bikes, and a vast assortment of trials gear such as top-ranked Gaerne boots, and Airoh helmets. A wide gamut of sizes of sizes are carried – from children to adults – so I was stoked to find out that he could order me a pair of size 5, or 6 mens trials boots. I’ve been wanting a pair for a long time and can’t wait to get my feet in them. I’ve also got my eye on a sweet Airoh helmet, with matching red pants and jerseys. Feel good, look good and ride good…it’s all good in my books!!

See you next year!

I’d like to say this is me but Dan Johnson, also a Trials des Nations’ Canadian Team Member may have something to say about that.

2013 Beagle Bash Enduro & Trail Ride Photo Report

Posted on April 22, 2013February 4, 2016 by cecile

The off-road season in Ontario has now officially started with the completion of the 2013 Beagle Bash Enduro and Trail Ride. Click here to view PHOTOS of this fun annual LVDR event.

Despite the cool temps over 100 eager off-roaders drove to beautiful Norfolk-Haldimand counties to find hidden forests teeming with sweet single track. As for me…the bright sunny blue skies were no match for my new almighty flash that I purchased this winter. Yes…I sold my Suzuki 2002 GS500 and bought a flash and with the money left over I was happy to be able to contribute to the household income by putting dinner on the table for a few nights! I realised I do not have the time to ride my road bike with two young children and if I do have the time I would rather it be on the dirt. I am a dirty chick through and through 😉

Thanks to Doug Kent of the Lynn Valley Dirt Riders club I was able to pre-ride part of the course the day before in an effort to better plan my day for the big event. Although my KTM 200 did not like the 1C, flying snow and high winds we had on Saturday (nor me for that matter), we were liking the flowing trails and tacky soil. Sadly though, as much as I tried to plan for taking photos of all rider, I was not able to due to the different starting times and options on the course. To those riders that I missed I apologise. I do my best to plan my routes efficiently but sometimes, logistically, I just cannot be in two places at once.

For the 2013 year CGP will be on hand at most Ontario Off-Road events (trail rides, enduros and XC) in an effort to record the fun times and great trails that are available throughout our province. Thanks to all the LVDR riders, and countless other volunteers who selfishly donate their time to bring great events. I would also like to personally take this time to thank Mike Van Hove for his assistance Saturday. As always, if you purchase a photo I thank you in advance as this helps me get to the next event.

The Beagle Bash was a great kick off to this years riding season. Let the fun begin. Braaaap!