For the second year in a row IMBA Canada attended the MEC Bikefest on the beautiful North Shore of Vancouver. This year the amazing amount of sunshine brought out an abundance of attendees. The Bikefest on the North Shore is a fantastic community event, bringing together cyclists from all disciplines like BMX, enduro-racing, mountain bike enthusiasts and young families. It was especially fantastic to see so many kids on run bikes, BMX bikes, and small pedal bikes rolling around the expo area eager to find stickers and free snacks.

At the IMBA Canada booth we had many of our members/supporters come by curious about what we were up to, and armed with some excellent questions about the state of the organization. It was great to be able to speak with them face to face to address any concerns and receive some positive feedback about the work we do. We also had ample opportunity to educate many new people on the advocacy efforts of IMBA Canada. Being right next door to our affiliated club the North Shore Mountain Biking Association helped to steer those who wanted to get involved in trail work connected with their local trail advocates.

It was heard on several occasions from our visitors that without IMBA Canada, or local trail associations like the NSMBA, the associated world of retailers and related businesses would look vastly different. Without the facilities and trail infrastructure where would events like Bikefest take place?  It reminds us of the old motto “What would we do without trails?”

A big shout out to Maddie from the North Vancouver MEC who organized another incredible event. It was a true delight to attend such a well-run festival and to see so many like-minded groups/attendees coming out to support a great event.

 

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