Whitehorse students attended their first mountain bike race of the new school year last night at Mount Mac.

Thirteen students took part ranging in grades from seven to 12.

They hit the trails on Mount Mac after the school day for a preview race before hitting the track for the real deal.

Starting at the bike park, they road along Rocky Canyon, Can Can and Porcupine Ridge. The younger kids did the about three-kilometre loop once, while the older kids did it twice.

At yesterday afternoon’s race, some of the younger kids did two laps of the course, impressing race organizer Manon Aubert.

The fastest rider of the night was F.H. Collins’ Finn Matrishon, who completed the six-kilometre course in just over 19 minutes.

“He did it really fast,” said Aubert. “That was really impressive.”

The level of the riding all around had improved from previous years too, she said.

The Académie Parhélie hosted the race. Next week F.H. Collins will take the reigns at Schwatka Lake, followed by Porter Creek Secondary School on Oct. 5.

The races are designed for high school riders, but those who are younger and have biking experience may also participate.

The three races cost $5 and permission forms can be picked up at schools, or during race registration.

Next week, the racers will meet at the Schwatka Lake boat launch at 4 p.m. for registration.

RESULTS

One lap (3K)

1. Josh Zaidan
2. Nathan Scully
3. Kaden Gregory
4. Ava Staley
5. Johna Irving
6. Isla Hupé
7. Orlina Ménard

Two laps (6K)

1. Finn Matrishon
2. Luke Bakica
3.Angus Endless
4. Vincent Menard
5. Noah Connell
6. Mollie Fraser