La Course Des Morts 2014
Posted on October 31 2014
This past weekend in Montreal was the world famous Halloween inspired alleycat race, La Course Des Morts. This year was the 14th anniversary, meaning it was going to be the biggest and best to date. With bicycle messengers traveling from all over the world to compete it makes for one great event and a very competitive environment. We were lucky enough to be in town for the weekend and sponsored the main race with a couple lattice chainrings. Thursday night was the group ride / meet and greet, Friday was the ‘out of towners alleycat race’, and Saturday was the main race worth all the bragging rights.
‘ Group gathering at the clock tower, just moments before the main race’
‘ Riders slowly arriving while the sun sets along the river ‘
A big part of the weekend is being able to cruise and explore the city of Montreal with other bike-minded people. One of the best spots to climb and cruise down is without a doubt Mont Royal – located in the heart of the city, and a pretty challenging climb for those riding brakeless track bikes. But let us assure you, the views are well worth it!
‘ On top of Mont Royal – break time before the quick descent ‘
‘ A touch of lattice love with the Montreal Cross ‘
Saturday night was the main race and drew over 150 competitors riding all kinds of bikes; cross, road, mountain, single speed cruisers, tandems and brakeless track bikes. Riders were told to leave their bikes in the main vacant parking space, lock them, and then all gathered about 500 meters away while organized stuffed checkpoint manifests in their spokes.
‘ Locked, checkpoint ready and waiting to rip – caught a few lattice chainrings at the race! ‘
As riders sprint to unlock their bikes, form teams and figure out their route you can feel the excitement in the air. The two part race (yes, there is a second checkpoint manifest you receive once you’ve finished the first) stretches just short of 80Km – so for some the night ends up being a fun ride through the city, and for others a race to win some killer swag.
‘ Riders sprint to unlock their bikes and read their checkpoint manifest ‘
‘ A couple of couriers planning their next checkpoint stop, enjoying the subzero ride ‘
All in all a fantastic weekend, killer race and a great opportunity to meet bicycle messengers from all over the world. Big thanks to Kelly, Bruno, Jesse and Andrew for all the organization and hospitality. If you’re ever in Montreal during Halloween be sure to participate in one of the best underground cycling events in North America! Oh, and check that #laCDM14 hashtag on Instagram for more photos!
