The Okanagan Shuswap Century Ride is a tradition that has been going on now for 13 years. This event was tiny in stature when it began but has evolved into a large mass ride that sells out quickly. Over 400 riders challenged this metric century which takes participants from Armstrong through rolling farmlands into Salmon Arm and back again. The weather could not have been better for the 2012 running. Moreover, the date was special this year as it also landed on the same day that Ryder Hesjedal won the Giro d'Italia. With good vibes, good weather, and good friends, the ride seemed like there was a tail wind at your back at all times. Here is a brief run-down of the course and organization of the event.
THE COURSE
The ride starts at the Centennial Park in Armstrong and weaves its way through some residential areas before finally grabbing a hold of rural roadways on the outskirts of town. Riders then follow well paved rural roads all the way to Salmon Arm (about 55k). This portion of the ride is scenic but challenging with lots of rolling hills but no major climbs; however, That all changes once you hit Salmon Arm. A steep long climb out of Salmon Arm greets you at about 55-60 km into the ride. This hill is no picnic so be prepared. After that, there are a few climbs to do but they generally pale in comparison. Eventually you connect back with the original road and cruise back into Armstrong for the finish. A map of the course is at the bottom.
ORGANIZATION
The event is well organized but it is a century ride so it is not a timed event. The riders had no real identifying markers or numbers to indicate that they were participating so it was not difficult for a few unscrupulous individuals to bandit the course. Overall, the event went fairly smooth. The organizers had aid stations on the route and a couple of support vehicles patrolled the course to assist with any mechanical issues that riders may come across. Even though this is an open course, there were some volunteers running traffic control at busy intersections within the city limits.
WHO IS THIS RIDE GOOD FOR?
Realistically, anyone who has had minimal riding experience should be ok on this ride because of the multiple distance choices (56 km option is available). This ride really allows participants to work together in packs and go at your own pace. You will have to have some solid riding experience to tackle the century though. There are a couple of climbs that are no joke especially the hike out of Salmon Arm. If you are looking for a metric century that offers a good challenge, support, and low-key appeal then the OSCR is definitely for you.
*VISIT OUR PHOTO GALLERY FOR PICTURES OF THIS EVENT
We would love to hear your comments. Drop us a line in the comments section below and subscribe to our blog feed by clicking the RSS button on the page or follow us on facebook at facebook.com/bcracereview. Send us your photos. Our email is bcracereview@gmail.com
THE COURSE
The ride starts at the Centennial Park in Armstrong and weaves its way through some residential areas before finally grabbing a hold of rural roadways on the outskirts of town. Riders then follow well paved rural roads all the way to Salmon Arm (about 55k). This portion of the ride is scenic but challenging with lots of rolling hills but no major climbs; however, That all changes once you hit Salmon Arm. A steep long climb out of Salmon Arm greets you at about 55-60 km into the ride. This hill is no picnic so be prepared. After that, there are a few climbs to do but they generally pale in comparison. Eventually you connect back with the original road and cruise back into Armstrong for the finish. A map of the course is at the bottom.
ORGANIZATION
The event is well organized but it is a century ride so it is not a timed event. The riders had no real identifying markers or numbers to indicate that they were participating so it was not difficult for a few unscrupulous individuals to bandit the course. Overall, the event went fairly smooth. The organizers had aid stations on the route and a couple of support vehicles patrolled the course to assist with any mechanical issues that riders may come across. Even though this is an open course, there were some volunteers running traffic control at busy intersections within the city limits.
WHO IS THIS RIDE GOOD FOR?
Realistically, anyone who has had minimal riding experience should be ok on this ride because of the multiple distance choices (56 km option is available). This ride really allows participants to work together in packs and go at your own pace. You will have to have some solid riding experience to tackle the century though. There are a couple of climbs that are no joke especially the hike out of Salmon Arm. If you are looking for a metric century that offers a good challenge, support, and low-key appeal then the OSCR is definitely for you.
*VISIT OUR PHOTO GALLERY FOR PICTURES OF THIS EVENT
We would love to hear your comments. Drop us a line in the comments section below and subscribe to our blog feed by clicking the RSS button on the page or follow us on facebook at facebook.com/bcracereview. Send us your photos. Our email is bcracereview@gmail.com
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