Logger sports are about to become a part of the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy.
The international motorcycle event lands in Nelson September 10 as part of a 600 mile round trip that will take participants from Calgary through Southern Alberta, into the Kootenay region, and then circle back through Revelstoke, and eventually returning to Calgary.
The GS Trophy is an endurance competition where riders are not asked to race as much as perform challenges with their BMW motorcycles. It combines riding skills with endurance, mechanical knowledge and more.
In September, 16 teams comprised of participants from at least 18 nations are set to rendezvous in Canada to compete in this friendly event dedicated to the famous GS spirit.
So far, teams from Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Russia, Austria/Switzerland, Central Eastern Europe, USA, Mexico, Latin America, Argentina, Brazil, South Africa, Japan and Korea will join host nation Canada.
When in Nelson, participants will take part in logger sports events at the Lakeside Park Beach between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m.
The location will be used for off-road challenges for the participants.
These challenges will be organized by professional forester Glenn Erickson (of Erickson Enterprises) and a support crew, with assistance from the Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce. Challenges include:
- Log rolling
- Axe throw
- Two person cross cut saw
- Peevee log rolling
A portion of the Lakeside Park Beach will be cordoned off early in the day to allow for set up and more importantly to ensure safety for competitors and spectators.
All of the logger sport events will take place on the beach, and will be run by Erickson, a professional logger who has been actively involved as the organizer of Kaslo Logging Sports competitions at the annual May Day celebrations.
“The Chamber has been pleased to work with organizers and help with the logistics of the event,” said Tom Thomson, executive director of the Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce.
“It will be a fun afternoon for locals to watch and enjoy and a tremendous benefit in terms of international exposure as each of the 16 international teams has their own media liaison.”
For the first time in GS Trophy history, the public been invited to experience the event.
A mix and mingle overnight package (on September 11) is available. It includes a special guest package, up close experience with one of the challenge competitions, dinner with the GS Trophy participants, one-night tenting with the participants, a concert featuring the Frankie McQueen Band, breakfast with the participants and more.
Contact the Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce for more details and cost.