I had the chance to take part in the second edition of Xterra Quebec City this past weekend. Although still in its inception, this race would not disappoint and procure plenty of challenges. Nestled near Stoneham Ski resort, Lac Delage is about 30 min north of Quebec city and is the race site chosen by the race director. The swim course is a giant square of 1200m, favouriting the non swimmer as it is a bit shorter that the usual 1500m. To the dismay of many, including yours truly, the water temperature last weekend was too warm to be wetsuit legal. Although unaware at the time, speed suits weren’t supposed to be allowed as Tri Quebec follows the ITUI rules that on a non wetsuit race, whatever you wear going in the swim has to be kept for the rest of the day. I had spoken with the race director a few days before and that was not the case. After a quick discussion as I was in transition with an official, she gave me a break and I continued on without penalty. To my defence I was not the only competitor with a speed suit. If the swim is on the short side and probably not as hard, the bike course is definitely the opposite. One could describe this course as reminiscent of a true world cup cross country course in “La Belle Province” the 6 km loop that had to be done 5 times posed plenty of challenges and demanded technical ability on the mountain bike. This true cross country course has it all from the Chicken pass option almost at the start of the course to steep power climbs, rocks and roots and tricky descent; mountain biking skills are a must. With two waves being 10 minutes apart, the trail was not too crowded given the fact that it was a multi loop system and all riders that I encountered were very gracious to let faster riders pass as soon as they could. The nice thing about the multi loop system is that it is great for spectator as they would see you in a pump track style every lap where a live band, music, and beer garden were accessible for them. The run course was in itself also a challenge as although not a lot of elevation gain was taken on the bike compared to other course around the world, the technical and short power climbs would still tire your legs. The run course was a 5km loop to be done twice and with longer ascent and some technical descent, one could not take a rest. This run course was also a true cross country run presenting all the challenges that one would expect. Adequate aid station were on the course as last minute decision from the race director to add a few due to the heat was the right call to make. It is to be noted that if this course was in the rain and mud such as last year, it would be very challenging to say the least. Although in its infancy this race has definitely the potential to become a marquee race and should definitely be on everyone’s race calendar who is looking for a challenge both on the bike and on the run. The volunteers were great and you can see that a lot of hard work has been poured on the trail system. As for me, it was nice to be back to racing after having being sidelined for three and half months with a broken foot. Happy Trails
Carpe Diem
Text: Chuck Fortier
Picture: Pascal Gagné
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