July 08, 2013 (Penticton, BC) – Day four of the Future Stars Camp in Penticton, B.C. saw riders split into two groups to tackle Apex Mountain. Riders had the opportunity to meet and ride with Tim Ambercrombie and learn a little more about pacelines and high speed drafting. In the afternoon, the kids had a chance to help out with the Piccolo Fondo (kids aged 2-12) before heading over to the conference hall to hear a great chat from Laura Brown on her journey to the Olympics and Sofi Leroux’s presentation on Sponsor appreciation.

“It’s inspiring for me to see the next generation of BC’s best!” – Cody Campbell

I loved seeing all the young kids enjoying riding their bikes at the Piccolo Fondo – huge smiles!”- Seamus Benwell

“Coming from a track cycling background it was great to have Laura Brown come in and tell us about her journey to the 2012 Olympics.” – Adam Reddy

“It was very motivating to meet such inspirational people this week, Ron Hayman, Evan Guthrie and Laura Brown. It’s incredibly motivating as I begin my journey as a cyclist.” – Kelty Slaney

Day 5
Today was an early start as we geared up for the Valley First GranFondo in Penticton. The U17 boys and girls participated in the Mediofondo (90km) and the U19 boys participated in the Granfondo (180km), with everyone crossing the finish line with minimal mechanicals. We saw two team members take the Oakley KOM and QOM for their age group, Cordell Dickie taking the overall win for the Mediofondo with Brendan Cowley in third, and Tessa Pinckston taking 2nd overall for the women in the MedioFondo.

“I had a terrific day riding with some inspiring people, including the U23 Canadian National Road Champion giving me a push up the first hill and attacking with Axel Merckx and the Bontrager team. Thanks to all the sponsors and supporters that helped make this camp happen!” – Jackson Pickell

It was quite exhilarating to win the red and white polka dot jersey for being Queen of the Mountain. Although the climb was a challenge, I pushed through the discomfort, and the win was definitely the highlight of my day!” – Kelty Slaney

“It felt great to win a polka dot jersey today for the King of the Mountain climb in the GranFondo. The early part of the race was so well too, me being in a break with the Bontrager Team. Lucky for us the temperature did not get too hot, it would have been a long ride if it was hot. It was great to ride with someone known and who sponsors us, Axel Merckx.” – Trevor Pearson

Thanks to everyone who has made this experience possible!