High profile mountain biking advocate Cliff Miller announced he's stepping down as president of the Squamish Off Road Cycling Association (SORCA) after founding the volunteer organization 14 years ago.
Miller said he will continue to helm the über-popular Test of Metal, now in its 10th year, but he'll withdraw from his role as SORCA president, which in recent years as involved saving mountain bike trails from destruction and mediating land use conflicts at local and provincial levels and among other user groups.
"SORCA's been asked to do way more than any association should be asked to do," said Miller. "The last couple of years has just been issue after issue after issue and I'm just tired. I just need a break from being the front person for mountain biking in Squamish."
Long-time vice-president Don Petrocco will also be stepping down during the Monday (Dec. 4) annual general meeting after serving for several years, saying he has time commitment pressures and feels the need for change.
The duo leaves on a high note following SORCA's achievement on Nov. 23 as Cycling British Columbia's Mountain Bike Club of the Year.
Miller will now focus his intense energy toward his newest obsession: barbecuing. Miller intends to enter contests for his American south, slow cook style barbecue recipes. But he pledged to continue having a presence within SORCA.
"I believe I've got a new title as barbecue official," he laughed. "I'll certainly serve as past president and provide some leadership and guidance to the incoming president. But the nice thing is hopefully most of the board will return, so it should be a fairly smooth transition."
The indefatigable community leader continues to show his dedication to the organization and to the sport with a final public call for volunteer support.
"As we evolve as a community, our association, like any other association is only as strong as its members," said Miller. "If you own a bike and ride the trails, you should probably join SORCA and give that much more of a unified voice for mountain biking in the community."
SORCA members will hoist farewell toasts praising Miller and Petrocco for their years of hard work for the mountain biking community during the annual general meeting at the Howe Sound Brew Pub, Monday (Dec. 4) at 7 p.m.
"I'm sure we'll swill a few beers," laughed Miller.
Members will also vote in a new executive during the AGM. Door prizes will be available for SORCA members in good standing.
