October 21, 2006 – It was the opening day of the 6-day bicycle race at the Forest City Velodrome last night (Friday). Six teams were contesting for the win and attacks started almost immediately after the race started. Teams Brantford and Delhi managed to get one lap up on the others early in the first 30 minute session.

The second session saw the lead change back and forth as they each won sprint points and Team Waterloo gained a lap to make it a three-way tie in laps.

In the last session with 20 minutes to go in the race Team London was within striking distance of gaining a lap and thereby tie for the overall lead when Delhi rider Stephen Meyer crashed going into turn one and London rider Ryan Crawford wasn’t able to avoid him and crashed heavily into the end banking. As a result Crawford had to retire from the race with contusions to the hip and forehead. Meyer returned to the race.

Maogosha Pyjor, the first female to contest a six-day race made a very strong showing thoughout the race.

Results after day one:

– Team Brantford and Team Delhi tied for the lead with 10 points
– Team Waterloo 8 points
– Team Vancouver 7 points
– Teams Hamilton and London tied with 6 points

Racing continues Saturday night at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm
A tribute to recently deceased Joe DeMaeyer will precede Sunday’s race.