The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup is coming to Lake Placid, New York, from September 27-29, 2024. Mount Van Hoevenburg serves as the venue for the penultimate round of the XCO and XCC divisions, as well as the final round for the XCM division. Although this is Lake Placid’s first time hosting a UCI World Cup event, the area is no stranger to major international events, previously hosting the Winter Olympic Games in 1932 and 1980.
A brand-new course for world-class racing
The event organizers have worked hard all summer to prepare a challenging course that showcases the best in mountain biking. In late August, a few riders were invited to test the course, including Laurie Arseneault, a Bromont local and member of the Pittstop Racing team.
“I connected with the organizers through my team manager,” Arseneault explained. “We thought it would be a good idea for our team to get a look at the track. It’s like a second home race for us since it’s so close.”
The primary goal of these test runs was to estimate race times, helping Warner Bros. Discovery plan its broadcast schedule. Arseneault came away impressed by the course design.
A fast and punchy track
“They’ve definitely put a lot of effort and love into this new track,” Arseneault said. “It’s a fast, punchy course that seems to favor powerful riders. There’s also a great technical segment in the forest that adds complexity. The venue is well-designed and will be an excellent location for a World Cup.”
Her feedback underscores the balance between speed and technical skill that riders will need to succeed on this course. With steep climbs and tricky terrain, it promises to be an exciting race for both riders and spectators.
Arseneault’s return to World Cup competition
After placing second in the XCM Canadian Championships in Thunder Bay, Arseneault is excited to be back at the UCI World Cup level.
“I’m beyond thrilled to compete at the World Cup level again,” she said. “It’s been a strange season for me, with injuries over the past two years. But I’ve learned a lot about resilience and staying positive in tough situations. I’ve worked hard to regain my form, and I’m excited to be doing what I love with a healthy body.”
For Arseneault, returning to Lake Placid holds a special significance. “It’s always been a special place…
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