A Growing International Destination
Sugarloaf Bike Park is no longer just a local spot. With back-to-back Crankworx events, it has solidified its place as a must-visit destination for international MTB athletes and fans alike. The event proved that when a community rallies behind its sport, the impact extends far beyond the trails: boosting tourism, uniting fans, and positioning Sugarloaf on the map as a global hub for mountain biking.
Here is a complete breakdown of what happened:
August 22 | Dual Slalom & Big Air Kick-Off Party
Around 100 riders competed head-to-head in the Dual Slalom, kicking off the competition with intense, fast-paced action. The evening wrapped up with the Big Air Kick-Off Party at the Restigouche Experience Centre, where fans watched athletes perform on the new Big Air feature. Highlights included 16-year-old Zoë Witwicki, one of the first women to land a backflip in the Summer Series. Athletes also participated in a fan signing session, creating direct engagement opportunities.
August 23 | Slopestyle, Kidsworx & XCO
The Slopestyle competition featured an upgraded FMB Silver license, attracting more international riders and raising the stakes. Kidsworx offered non-competitive activities for children aged 6–12, while participants tackled a challenging cross-country course combining rugged terrain and scenic views. Community engagement was front and center during the World Championship Pond Crossing, where the youngest competitor set the record time of the day. The evening concluded with live music from Excel and the Spreadsheet, who were so acclaimed in their first year that they were invited back, extending the event’s lifestyle and entertainment appeal.
August 24 | Downhill Racing
The final day featured downhill competitions on the “L’Acadienne,” Kodiak, and Grumpy Gris trails, showcasing athletes navigating challenging terrain and creating dynamic, content-rich moments for social media.