Crankworx mountain bike festival kicks off in Whistler this weekend

Aug 8 2019, 2:20 pm

The best slopestyle mountain bikers in the world will descent upon Whistler this month, as Crankworx kicks off on Friday.

Known as the ‘Super Bowl’ of mountain biking, Crankworx has grown significantly since the inaugural edition held in Whistler in 2004. The 10-day event, which takes place August 9-18, will attract 300,000 spectators, 1181 pro athletes, 1,090 Kidworx competitors, and 344 volunteers.

Organizers say Crankworx now has the largest economic impact of all major events in Whistler. Clearly, it’s not just a ski resort anymore.

Taking place on the largest slopestyle mountain bike course in the world, athletes will compete in 22 different events. The festival’s signature event is the Red Bull Joyride, set at the base of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, on Saturday, August 17. That event alone will attract 35,000 spectators.

Crankworx is free to attend, though VIP packages are also available for purchase. The festival also hosts races for amateurs, ‘Kidworx’ contests for young riders, participatory events, and celebrations of mountain bike culture.

Here’s a look at the 2019 Whistler Crankworx schedule at a glance:

Rob WilliamsRob Williams

+ Offside