Like all sporting events affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Royalty of the Canyon mountain bike race was different.

There was no mass start. Riders had from 9 a.m. Saturday to 5 p.m. Sunday to complete the 50-kilometre and 25-kilometre races, keeping their own time.

The event organized by Colin McCann of the Contagious Mountain Bike Club still attracted 36 competitors, ranging in age from 10 years old to 60 years old.

Sierra Vandermeer was crowned Queen in the 50-kilometre event for females with a time of three hours and 17 minutes.

Ian Parker earned the King’s crown in the men’s 50-kilometre race, with a time of two hours and 52 minutes.

Maude Molgat retained her title as Princess in the women’s 25-kilometre event with a time of two hours and two minutes.

Evan Wise was named Prince in the men’s 25-kilometre event with a time of one hour and 38 minutes.

“Good vibes were shared to me by all considering the event was self timed with no support, no aid stations, no first aid support, no barbecue, no music, no bevies, no cheering or cowbell,” McCann reported. “We would all like to see that stuff come back next year or course.”

Of the 36 competitors, there were 11 in the female category ranging in age from 17 years old to 55 years old.

There were 25 male riders, ranging in age from 10 years old to 60 years old.

McCann said some riders got poured on while others stayed dry.

Trail conditions were much better on Sunday compared to Saturday, he said.

The Royalty of the Canyon race was supported through sponsorship from Icycle Sports and Cadence Cycle.