Chiron Kantakis (Escape Velocity) and Jeff Hanninen (Daryl Evans) charging up the stairs © Doug Brons
by Doug Brons
Finally, cyclocross racers in the southwest corner of British Columbia got what they wanted: rain, mud, wind and temperatures hovering around 4ºC (39ºF). The weather office predicted rain beginning at noon, and they were not wrong, giving the Citizens and 3/4 categories just enough time to finish in the cold but dry(ish) conditions. By the time the Elite men, Women and Masters took to the course it was raining steadily and the wind had picked up. This made for some epic racing in the afternoon. Racers finished mud-encrusted, exhausted and chilly.
The course in the South Surrey Athletic Park had a bit of everything: a flyover, off camber grass, pavement, stairs and a trip through the pump track making for some very technical and lung-busting riding.
In the Elite Men’s race Kevin Noiles (Sportique) extended his lead in the BC Cup points race, taking the win over Sven Sturm (Trek-Red Truck Racing) and Mike Berkenpas (Local Ride). In the Open Women’s race, Jean Ann Berkenpas (Xprezo) also padded her BC Cup points, winning over Sandra Walter (Local Ride) and Joele Guynup (Condo Group/Marin).
The event was co-organized by Daryl Evans Racing and Mighty Riders Racing.
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