The East Kootenays have long been an athletes paradise. Endless trails to discover, mountains to climb, targets to attain and races to either check off the list or set out to dominate. Over the past few years, an increasing number of trail races have appeared on the map, all growing in popularity year-on-year, resulting in capped entries, exciting challenges and increasingly tough competition. With continuous improvements to courses and race developments, each independent race ensures fantastic race day experiences and memories.

Within this ever-growing collection of trail races making their mark throughout the East Kootenays lies a small number who joined forces for the 2012 Spring-Fall race season. Subsequently, this five race collaboration brought about the 1st Annual TREKS: Trail Races of the East Kootenay Series 2012.

The 5 Races in 2012:
Staring off the 2012 season was Round the mountain in Kimberley, a 20km trail, new in June 2011 offering both running and biking. Then, a favourite race, in a new timeslot is the Crazy Soles Nipika Trail Run in Invermere, a 25km predominantly single track and stunning trail race in late July. Next up was the toughest challenge in the form of Heiko’s Hellish Half in Fernie, a deceptively difficult 25km trail run utilising the well known and mind-blowing Heiko’s Trail late August. Fourth is Tears & Gears: Classic or Enduro Trail Run again in Fernie, showcasing a new 22km route added to the existing T&G Mountain Duathlon route in early September. And lastly was the much loved Headbanger Trail Challenge in Radium, a quick paced and competitive new course 10km race along the Columbia River. Each race showcasing what the East Kootenays have to offer – impressive, varied and challenging terrain.

2013 sees a few changes, with a 6th race, a new points system, more prizes and a whole lot more. The Swansea Run/Hike is a new race that is joining TREKSeries for 2013, keeping you on your toes in July. We look forwards to seeing you this summer!