July 15, 2006 – The Ontario Cup Short Track series is nearly complete after the third round at Buckwallow Cycling Centre on July 8th. While fewer riders participated in the event, the racing action was still fast-paced and exciting for the above average number of spectators. Gabriel Charlton returned to the top of the podium in the Under 15 Men category, followed by Jean Daniel of the Barrie Cycling Club. John Fisher made the most of his first short track race, winning the 16-39 category. Mike Garrigan of HB Racing returned after missing the Hardwood Hills round to win the Pro/Open category.

After three hotly contested rounds, riders will look toward the point tallies, adding an extra layer of excitement leading up to the final round of racing. In the Under 15 Men category, Charlton completed the sweep of the first three events, while Garrigan took two victories in the Pro/Open Men category to hold a 20 point lead over Team R.A.C.E’s Andrew Watson. In each of the other categories, the competition is very close indeed. In the 15-39 Category, a different winner has taken each of the 3 events, with Jacob McClelland holding a slim lead over team mate Taylor Pieprzak. Closer still, the 40+ Men and Pro/Open categories both have ties atop the points standings.

The O-Cup STXC Provincial Championships will take place on Saturday, July 29th, at Elliot Lake. This event will feature a new course for 2006, and should provide an excellent backdrop to crown a series champion. Racers competing in this event can look forward to extra points being awarded at this event and an inflated prize pot will also add to the allure. Racers who haven’t yet given short track a try this season shouldn’t shy away from the Championships, as they can still win cash for their efforts, and possibly steal a high overall placing in the points.

Those looking for results, points standings, and more info about the series can look at www.mountainviewmidland.com