The Canadian Birkebeiner Society is very excited to host an off-road cycling event, the Bikenbender, Saturday, September 12th, 2026. Bikenbender is designed for both new and experienced riders to this type of cycling. Come and try out this exciting type of riding in one of our favourite places to exercise. The event is ideal if you are new to gravel or cross country riding. It can be completed using a cyclocross, gravel or mountain bike.

The ride will take you along the undulating grass trails and gravel roads within the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot recreation Area. Participants will encounter a challenging 37 km course which, for the most part, they can ride at a comfortable pace.

The racing occurs over three timed segments within the route. The placings will be determined by the sum of the times for the three timed segments. The race course is a large loop, with riders also finishing in the same location as the start.