Certain individual members of Vancouver's preeminent hiking club challenge any members of any hiking club in BC to a race up Mt. Payne on 13 Aug. 2005. Mt. Payne is 8,100 ft. and the race would start from any point of ones choosing along the Silverhope/Skagit Creek Rd. (1,900 ft.) at 7:00am. There is no trail up the mountain, and no obvious best route. The race thus, is not just a test of physical endurance, but of ability to look at a mountain (and maps), and figure out the fastest route up. To make it fair and fun all those who are interested are asked not to do any reconnaisancing before the race. However simply looking at the mountain, as well as maps, photos and any information you can find, is fair. The whole point of the race is to have fun climbing a rarely climbed mountain. Participants are encouraged to car camp and socialize at a (to be selected) camping place, near the base on Friday evening.

THIS IS NOT IN ANY WAY A CLUB SPONSORED OR SANCTIONED RACE. Mt. Payne is a rugged mountain with sub-peaks, gullies, loose rock and steep sections. Anyone participating will be required to carry a minimum of a 20 lb. backpack that contains at least 4 litres of water, a helmet, extra food and rain protection. They will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that they understand that this is not a club sanctioned event, and that they understand all the risks involved.

Anyone interested please contact Alastair Ferries 604 263-5835 natlakeele@hotmail.com