About Us
The Gold Rush Cycling Club’s main objective is to maintain, enhance and develop sustainable mountain bike trail networks within the city of Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District. As an incorporated, not-for-profit society, we are developing a legal trail network that promotes fun for all ages, abilities and interests, and one which will continue to evolve with the current industry and trail standards to ensure viability for generations to come. The Gold Rush Cycling Club has a board of directors dedicated to promote the growth of mountain biking and recreational cycling in the city of Quesnel and the CRD.
Board of Directors
John Courtney
PresidentI’m not fussy about what two wheels I ride, but two wheels is all you need. I coordinate the kid’s program, run an outdoor business, and in my free time I’m checking off all the KOM’s in the local area.
Chris Klapatiuk
Vice-PresidentI have been riding for 35 years. First bike was a fully rigid Kuwahara with rim brakes. The changes in mountain biking have been so huge but the feeling of being on your bike is still the same freedom that you felt when you were a kid. Ride bikes and respect the trails!
Michelle Klapatiuk
TreasurerI’ve been mountain biking since 1991, when you learned to bike the hard way on old school bikes, and secret old school trails on the North Shore of Vancouver. It was sink or swim back then and I don’t know if I ever truly “swam” on those trails, but I didn’t quit and still feel most at home on my bike. It’s my happy place… being on my bike in the forest.
Esther Platts
SecretaryHi, I’m Esther! I’m originally from the UK. BC is a mountain biking mecca and I’m so grateful to live in Quesnel and help showcase a piece of the BC biking nirvana. Come visit us, it rocks!!!
Erin Gagne
DirectorI’m passionate about growing the sport of mountain biking and having it be more accessible for more people. I lead the women’s group ride and run our social medias. Reach out anytime for tips on after school loops or big epic all day adventures.
Wyatt Herman
DirectorI am the director of the Dragon Mountain trail network. Depending on your definition of favourite trail, What the Huck short lap is where you’ll find me the most often, but the descent I enjoy most has got to be Hewitt’s into 7 Dwarves. I’m grateful to be a part of the amazing biking community in Quesnel, and I’m very excited to see what’s to come for GRCC.
Jason King
DirectorLife is like riding a bicycle. To keep balance, you must keep moving.
– Albert Einstein.
Trevor Patchett
DirectorI give back to the cycling community in any way I can. My whole family enjoys the trails here in Quesnel, and we have appreciated the expansions that allow us all to ride together!
Bob Simpson
DirectorCycling and community is important to me. I’m happy to be a director on the GRCC board and help continue to grow mountain biking in Quesnel in all ways!
Ben Walker
DirectorI’m a fan of everything two wheels, and four legs.
Ian Van Leusden
DirectorI’m a busy family man, but always have time to sneak out for a ride. Lately, that involves getting my family on the trails too and we’ve worked hard as a club to have family friendly options.