PHOTOS: Weekend warriors and Canada’s best compete at Langford Bikefest
Published on Sunday, March 15, 2026, 6:00 p.m
Tight turns, abrupt descents and steep climbs were among the many challenges mountain bikers faced at the annual Langford Bikefest.
From March 13-15, more than 300 participants from across North America and beyond had the chance to race and show off their skills at the Jordie Lunn Bike Park.
While Friday and Saturday were reserved for participants at the national level, Sunday was open to the community.
“Today we have weekend warriors, young children and enthusiasts who are welcome to race on the circuit where the professionals have been racing for the past few days,” said race director John Watkins. “It is a skills-based race that gives beginners, intermediates and experts alike the opportunity to compete, race and learn new skills.”
Bikefest was launched in 2022, the same year the park opened its trails to the public, and Bikefest began shortly thereafter.
Watkins said the event had already received “mass support” from the local community in just a few years and was quickly making a name for itself on the local, national and even North American mountain bike circuit, with participants coming from as far away as the US and New Zealand.
As the race grows each year and attracts more riders and spectators, Watkins said the event remains rooted in the community and aims to celebrate local mountain biking culture.
“We have put so much energy and resources into this bike park that we want to throw a big party and recognize all that work,” he said.
And what makes the course so special? According to Watkins, it’s all about well-thought-out and properly laid-out trails.
“All of our trails are built by accredited trail builders,” he said. “This means they can deal with the elements while taking advantage of the local topography.”
Looking forward, Watkins hopes to grow the community, continue to expand the park and organize more events while encouraging people to participate in the upcoming Canadian Mountain Bike Championships in July.
For more information about Langford Bikefest, visit langfordbikefest.com.