After two years of hosting Canadian Cyclocross Nationals in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Cycling Canada recently announced the event will be moving to Peterborough, Ontario in 2018. The organization also announced Canada will be hosting a total of seven UCI races next year. This release from the organizers of the 2018 Canadian Nationals has more information.
2018 Canadian Cyclocross Nationals Move to Peterborough, Ontario
PETERBOROUGH, Ontario—Fans will have the opportunity to watch Canada’s top cyclocross racers compete for national honours on November 10, 2018 against the historic backdrop of one of Canada’s early engineering marvels, the Peterborough Lift Locks.
Presented by the Peterborough Cycling Club (PCC), in conjunction with CykelHaus Race Promotions, a three-day weekend of cyclocross will see the Canadian Cyclocross Championships sandwiched between a slate of fun, community and fundraising events on Friday, November 9 and UCI C2 races on Sunday, November 11.
Christel Ferrier-Bruneau and Maghalie Rochette, seen here at the Pan-American Championships, will likely be battling again in Peterborough in 2018. 2017 Pan-American Championships. © D. Perker / Cyclocross Magazine
“Peterborough has a great cycling culture, and our cyclocross race series in particular has seen tremendous growth over the last several years,” said PCC President Jeff Faulds. “Seeing this develop into selection as the host city for the national championships is incredibly rewarding.”
Winding above, below and even through The Peterborough Lift Locks, the venue promises plenty of elevation and terrain changes to challenge racers of all levels. For spectators, it’s just a short walk to Peterborough’s East City Commercial Area and the city’s vibrant downtown.
“Among cycling disciplines, cyclocross is certainly one of the most engaging and appealing for spectators,” mentioned CykelHaus principal John Hauser. “The short course offers great visibility, riders are on the limit from start to finish, and oft-unpredictable conditions make for great racing and give fans plenty to cheer about. It’s something we’re very excited to share with Peterborough.”
“Cyclocross is unique, in that there’s a culture that surrounds it that’s not seen in most other sports. Hand-ups, cowbells, heckling, costumes. it’s equal part sport and carnival at times. We’re focused on delivering a memorable weekend for racers and spectators alike,” added Faulds.
Michael van den Ham will be looking to defend his jersey in Peterborough in 2018. 2017 Derby City Cup. © D. Perker / Cyclocross Magazine
Canada to Offer Seven UCI Races in 2018
Elite-level cyclocross will continue to grow in Canada, with seven days of UCI-sanctioned races on the schedule for the fall of 2018.
The races include:
- Toronto, Ontario, September 1-2
- Sherbrooke, Quebec, October 20-21
- Peterborough, Ontario, November 11
- Silver Goose, Midland, Ontario, November 17-18
About the Peterborough Cycling Club
The Peterborough Cycling Club is a locally-based volunteer-run non-profit organization affiliated with the Ontario Cycling Association and the International Mountain Biking Association. From the most casual-paced to competitive road cycling; mountain bikes to time trialing or cyclocross, we strive to appeal to and include all interests and age groups.
About Cycling Canada
Cycling Canada is the governing body for competitive cycling in Canada. Founded in 1882, Cycling Canada aims to create and sustain an effective system that develops talented Canadian cyclists to achieve Olympic, Paralympic, and World Championship medal performances. With the vision of being a leading competitive cycling nation by 2020 celebrating enhanced international success, increased national participation and world class event hosting, Cycling Canada manages the High Performance team, hosts national and international events and administers programs to promote and grow cycling across the country. Cycling Canada programs are made possible through the support of its valued corporate partners – Global Relay, Lexus Canada, Mattamy Homes, Louis Garneau and Bear Mountain Resort – along with the Government of Canada, Own The Podium, the Canadian Olympic Committee and the Canadian Paralympic Committee.
