Source: Chris Hardwick
CCN interviewed Sue Duxbury, organizer of The Coaster about this annual event which in 2012 is on May 5-6 weekend.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your mountain biking background?
I took the race on 3 years ago from Rod Camposano who continues to be my course designer, riding buddy, ski buddy, and a good friend. Brad Proctor is the other designer and both of them are involved with the BC Bike Race (Day 4 and 5) design. I've only been riding 12 years. I began as a parent following my kids to Sprockids rides, then graduated to SCUMB and got hooked. I just started road riding 2 years ago. I love being out on the trails in any weather even snow.
Photo: James Looker
When did you get the idea for Sunshine Coaster?
The Coaster started life as the Rat Race. That lasted 7 years then Rod asked me to change the name when I took it on.
I called it the Sunshine Coaster but everyone else called it the Coaster (those that didn't insist on Rat Race).
What makes the race such a great event?
We keep people busy all weekend. We have a day of XC racing, BBQ, kids races, beer garden on the Saturday followed by the DH on Sunday. Our experienced personnel like Tanya Camposano who handles registration, check in and timing. She's been involved with mountain biking for so long she knows a lot of the racers personally and picks up on errors before they do.
Photo: James Looker
What changes if any do you have for the future?
Changes for the future will involve new and better single track to adapt to our changing needs and our friends the loggers. I mean that - they bend over backwards to help us. We are trying to make trails that go around BC Parks and there is a lot of red tape to go through them.
Photo: James Looker
What can riders expect over the course of the day? Any advice for success in the race?
It's a long xc - 50k - so pace yourself. There's still some climbing near the end.
Photo: James Looker
On an organization side, it must be keeping you busy. Where did you find the time to get out and ride and what's your favourite trail?
I do get out and ride. My favourite trail is still the Wagon Road. I can do the 'loop' in 1 hour 25 minutes non-stop. I make time to ride. Because Rod and
Tanya are behind me, I don't have to worry about the race 24/7.
Photo: James Looker
What are you riding now and what would be your ideal next bike purchase?
I am now riding a Brodie Mettle. My ideal purchase would be a Pivot.
They make a few bikes just for smaller ladies like me who push their limits.
Photo: James Looker
Favourite post-event beverage?
Favourite bev? 50-50 mix of veggie juice and fizzy water. Invented by my friend Brad Proctor.
Photo: James Looker
Any closing comments/thoughts?
Closing thoughts? Learn to get along with the loggers/miners/treehuggers. It's a small world and we need to learn to share. It can be done. Even in Roberts Creek!
