Apex Mountain Challenge beckons longboarders

PENTICTON – A Penticton longboard enthusiast is bringing a competition to Apex this weekend.

Manu Duhamel has organized the Apex Mountain Challenge slated for Saturday, Sept. 17.

Duhamel expects 40 to 50 riders for the longboard event which takes place on a steep, 1.8 kilometre stretch of town road, finishing up in the Apex parking lot.

Duhamel says with a descent of 2,000 feet, Apex has the highest street elevation in the Penticton region. He says the event is "open to all who would like to test their skills.”

Registration starts at 8 a.m. with the first practice run at 9 a.m. The first heat is at 11 a.m. and finals begin at 4 p.m. The race format is a push box start with the first two winners advancing. Race equipment is mandatory. Entry fee is $8 with food available on site. There will be shuttle service to the site.

Duhamel moved to Penticton two years ago, searching, he says, for “hills to practice on and to go as far as I can in longboarding.”

He’s supported by Freeride Board Shop in Penticton, Orangatang Wheels and Loaded Boards.

Duhamel has made videos of his thrilling longboard rides down steep streets and roads in Penticton and area communities.

For more information see the Apex Challenge Facebook page.

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