January 2, 2008 – We tried to get in touch with some of the 2008 Award winners to get their comments following the announcement of Pedal’s annual awards but as expected many riders are still on “holiday time”. However we did manage to catch up with a few and Catharine Pendrel also sent us a few pics to show readers how she and several other cycling amigos rang in the new year as they trekked out to Jean Ann McKirdy’s family cabin… meanwhile here’s what Pendrel, Cody Campbell and Zach Bell had to say about winning their 2008 awards.

Catharine Pendrel
Thanks Pedal readers for the votes! 2008 was an amazing season and I’m looking forward to another one. For me the 2009 season starts Jan 24 in Cleavland Ohio at Ray’s Indoor MTB park where a couple other pros and I will be teaming up with amateur racers for the Tri Flow Challenge indoor xc event!

Cody Campbell
That’s great news. This past year was a good season, I had a couple of set backs but all in all I was very happy with it. I’m looking forward to taking a step forward next year and riding with my new team, Trek-Livestrong U23, the espoir development team started by Lance Armstrong this year.

Zach Bell
I think getting this award is just a reflection of the positive work I have been able to accomplish since moving out to BC. I have been able to achieve many of my goals because of the structure and support that is beginning to grow towards world class support. The readers have recognized my results, and the results are a product of the work I have put in and the support I have received from organizations like Cycling BC, Shimano, Outdoor Gear Canada, and even Velo North and Sport Yukon. So thank you to all of them for that support. And thanks to the readers for choosing to recognize me in this way.