The Highlands showed off its riding prowess placing four in the top 20 at the Canada Cup (#3 Ontario Cup) mountain bike race at the Hardwood Ski and Bike centre on Sunday, June 3.

Hundreds of riders, who ranged from beginner to expert such as future Olympian and pro-mountain biker Emily Batty, took to the rain sodden course for the province's only UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) mountain bike event.

Highlands riders Trey Kyle, Nick Emsley, Kyle Lavergne, Nolan Flood and Owen Flood made the trip south. They have been regular competitors on the Ontario Cup mountain bike race series.

Owen has been the best finisher, getting to the podium for the past two races, placing third in both.

"The course was a fast-flowy track but the mud gave it some difficulty with some steep single-track climbs. The support you get at Canada Cup is amazing, as people you have never seen or met cheer you on. It really makes you push harder because you realize it is like a little community and everyone wants you to do well," said Owen Flood, who also finished in the top ten. Flood was the top Highlands rider at senenth in a field of 21 cadet racers.

Despite the conditions, Lavergne enjoyed the experience.

"The course was wet and slick but it didn't stop any of the racers to not give their all. The race was slower from all the rain hardwood hills had received, but it was still tons of fun," said Lavergne, who finished 36th in a field of 46 minime competitors.

"The vibe at the race was awesome, there was music lots of people and tents to support you. It really got me and everyone else excited to race and do our best and have fun while racing," said Nolan, who broke through the top 10 with a ninth place finish in a field of 23 peewee competitors.

- by Darren Lum with files from Owen Flood

Other results: Trey Kyle, 16th (cadet sport men),

Nick Emsley, 14th (minime men).