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Donkeys! In a rainstorm! In Port Coquitlam! It will be epic

Saturday’s weather forecast calls for rain. Lots of it. And that’s perfect conditions to launch the seven-race Lower Mainland cyclocross series at the annual Donkey Cross in Port Coquitlam’s Castle Park.
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Riders use whatever means necessary to navigate the mud and undulating terrain of Port Coquitlam's Castle Park at the annual Donkey Cross cyclocross races that are being held on Saturday.

Saturday’s weather forecast calls for rain. Lots of it. And that’s perfect conditions to launch the seven-race Lower Mainland cyclocross series at the annual Donkey Cross in Port Coquitlam’s Castle Park.

Cyclocross originated in northern Europe as a way for road cyclists to stay fit over the rainy, cold off-season with races that often traversed farmer’s fields and muddy trails as the riders tried to reach the next café for warmth. It has since evolved into its own discipline with special, more robust, bikes, that stays true to its origins by incorporating obstacles and dismounting challenges on a tight winding circuit.

To recreate the sport’s rural roots in a suburban park, course designer Tobin Copley is bringing in 40 metric tonnes of sand which will become a 30-metre “beach” that will challenge riders to stay upright or just hoist their bike onto their shoulder to run through it. The sand is donated to the park after the event to help address some ongoing drainage issues.

“It’s a win for everyone,” Copely said. “I like being able to leave the community with lasting benefits from this event.”

Racers will also be challenged by several tight, winding ascents and descents along the park’s undulating terrain.

The day’s schedule includes races youth, novice, intermediate, master’s and elite men and women, as well as a race for riders aboard single-speed bikes, a race for kid’s 8 to 12 on the full course and another for kids up to 7 years-old on a special mini-course.Registration opens at 8:15 a.m.

Spectators, as well as riders awaiting their event, will be able to warm up in a beer garden featuring beverages from Port Coquitlam’s newest craft brewery, Tinhouse. There will also be coffee and a food truck on site.

And, of course, the event’s mascot and namesake, Springsteen the miniature donkey, will visit.

For more information, as well as a complete schedule of races, go to http://donkeycrosscx.com.