Several years ago, a group of organizers in York set out to create a fundraiser for the local volunteer fire department.

They settled upon a mountain-bike race and called it the York 38 Special.

I tried it for the first time this year and wasn't disappointed. In fact, by the end of the day, I was as impressed as I was frazzled.

The volunteer community in York has created an event that gets a little more attention among bikers each passing year.

But this year's ride was almost the ride that wasn't. The Meriwether Fire, which began back in July, continues to burn in the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness.

Because the course for the 38 Special skirts the edge of the fire boundary, race organizers were concerned they'd have to cancel the event, or hold it elsewhere.

"When the Forest Service notified us that we probably wouldn't be able to use our regular route for the ride, we scrambled to put together alternative routes over largely untried trails and roads," said Tina Limon, a race committee member. "We were concerned about putting the riders at risk."

When Mike Walker, manager at Big Sky Cyclery, caught wind of the committee's dilemma, he volunteered to ride the alternative trails on his own time.

Walker rode three different routes ranging from 24 to 38 miles in length. That's a lot of miles.

"He even rode through a huge rain and windstorm near Hellgate," said Limon. "Not only did he give us a critique of the routes gauged by rider capabilities, but he also advised us as to potential work around trails, first aid stations, and general impressions."

Enthusiasts like Walker make the race successful. The race was full of smiling volunteers - one of the reasons why it's gaining attention, attraction riders from across Montana and the Northwest.

"This is the best-supported race anywhere," said Jim Rice of Kalispell. "I've ridden many other races and this one is the best. It works for everyone."

Volunteers staffed five aid stations scattered throughout the 38 mile race. The stations included homemade treats - cookies, bread, bananas, granola bars and Gatorade.

There's nothing like a sugar high to get you up the next hill.

Between aid stations, volunteers patrolled the course, looking for injured riders and mechanical mishaps. Hazards along the course were clearly marked with orange tape.

One man was even stationed up Trout Creek Canyon to warn passing riders of a freshly downed tree close to the trail.

"It was a tougher route than expected, but really beautiful and fun, and the volunteers were great," said Kristin Best, who rode Saturday's event. "All the time and energy, including the yummy treats, were much appreciated."

Reporter Martin Kidston can be reached at 447-4086, or at mkidston@helenair.com