RIDE THE WORLD CUPS FUNDRAISER! #1

The first "Ride The World Cup" race at Hellyer was a total success.

It was probably the best turnout we have had all year.

The night started with a 2-hour warm-up session with lots of riders trying out the track for the first time in a stress-free environment. DJ Snead was already set-up on the infield, spinning some awesome tunes that made the atmosphere incredibly cool and super-fun.


The first race started at 5:00 p.m. sharp with a field of about 15 C-riders competing in a 50-lap points race. The race was fun to watch with newby Mark making a strong impression on the spectators by launching an attack 3 laps into the race and creating a gap and a break away early in the race. The race was over before we knew it and it was time to take the rail and begin the 100-lap A's Points Race.

It was the biggest field I had competed against all year, probably about 30 riders. Everyone seemed ready to race and motivated to give us World Cup riders a run for our money. Dave McCook, Roman Kilun, Steve Paelez and myself are the riders that will be attending the World Cups this track season.

Dave started the race with a bang by launching an attack as soon as the gun went off and making the chasing field go from zero to 35 mph in less than a lap. He was able to hold off the field for a few laps and when it all came together again, it didn't slow down. The first sprint was contested by a united field of 30+ riders and I found myself positioned close to the front. I went for the sprint out of turn 3 and scored a point in the first sprint, which would later prove to be instrumental in my overall finish. The attacks did not stop throughout the entire 100-lap race. Soon, Mike Hernandez and Daniel Holloway established a breakaway that stayed away long enough to score some significant points. Several sprints were only for 2 and 1 points because of the situation off the front, but eventually it came back together and full points were available once again.

Ultimately, the field withered down to 6 riders that were on the same lap and I found myself in a breakaway with 4 of them. Hernandez looked back to find me on his wheel and motioned for me to take his wheel for the bell lap coming up. That's just what I did. The acceleration was enough to shake the other 2 and it was just us off the front leading into the final straightaway. Hernandez moved out of the pole and gave me the 5 points, which moved me into 4 or 5th place overall. I tried to redeem myself after the immense effort that was hanging on to Mike's wheel and found a nice draft to rest for the final 10 laps. We were now in a much smaller group and it was 4 to go with 6 of us and I was on 2nd wheel. The rider in front of me pulled off with 1/2 lap to go and I was overtaken by a couple of riders behind, but manage to hold the rest of the field off and score some points in the final sprint. I finished 3rd overall with Dave finishing just ahead of me in 2nd place.

I must take a moment to thank my man, Rob, for putting up all the cash for the BBQ food and the keg and knowing how to throw an incredibly fun party. This was by far the best night at the track I have ever experienced. There were some many incredible people who came out and showed their support. Huge thanks to DJ Josh Snead for spinning records so well the entire night. The music made a huge difference and sounded awesome.

Also, thanks to my mom and my step-dad for slaving away at the BBQ all night, making sure everyone was well-fed and warm. Thanks to Matt Martinez and the rangers at Hellyer Park for allowing this night to happen. Thanks to Emily and Ann for the cheering. Ron at Beljum Budder for the cream and Mudshine.


There really are so many people to thank. It's an amazing feeling to know that there are so many generous and supportive fans of cycling that are willing and happy to help us pursue our dreams of international competition. We will keep you posted on our adventures and we look forward to "Ride the World Cup" Round Two in January.