Mayor Charlie Cornfield expects the BC Bike Race will return to Campbell River next year.
The race, which brought roughly 450 cyclists from around the world to Campbell River July 4, rode through the city for the first time in its history.
Organizers were so impressed by Campbell River and its trails that they are “considering making it an annual stop” Cornfield told city council July 12.
BC Bike Race officials said “it’s likely” the race will return but it has not been officially confirmed.
Tom Skinner, BC Bike Race General Manager, who blogged daily during the race, had high praise for the city.
“Thanks to an array of amazing trails, and a warm and welcoming community, Campbell River Stage Two made its mark on the BC Bike Race with style,” he wrote.
Cyclists were challenged along this year’s 33-kilometre singletrack route that took competitors through the Snowden Demonstration Forest trails.
Riders spent three days in the city and camped overnight at Robert Ostler Park.
It featured international stars as well as Canadian Olympic team member, Victoria’s Andreas Hestler.
Martin Ready, a manager with BC Bike Race, was born and raised in Campbell River and suggested the area to the race organizers.
“The amount of trails here is just incredible,” Ready said in October when the BC Bike crew approached city council about hosting the race.
“You don’t spend a lot of time on logging roads, it’s a fantastic experience.”