May 16, 2011 (Mission, BC) – Sunday May 15 dawned cool and drizzly, but the gloomy forecast did not affect the spirits of the determined groups of cyclists who tackled the inaugural running of this exciting new event presented by the Phoenix Velo Training Group.

The Senior Category 3 and 4 Men’s’ race saw the early leader Graham Laurie succumb to a slow leak in his rear tire to finish fourth behind Mike Fellows of Atomic Racing Club, Ryan Golbeck and TNA’s Phil Vernon.

The Senior Men Category 1 and 2 saw an impressive Trek/Red Truck team sweep all top 6 positions. Their determined attack on the twisty, hilly 5.5 km circuit saw Tyler Trace take the win in a time of 2:35:16 for the 80 km race featuring a mile of gained altitude. Trace was followed in by teammates Dave Vuckets and Dan Skinner. Their breakaway companion, Cody Canning had suffered a puncture and after borrowing a wheel from an earlier competitor held off the remnants of the pack for a well deserved fourth.

Claire Cameron, the Women’s Champion best captured the difficulty of the course when she looked with disbelief at the lapboard and declared, “There can’t be four laps left!” Cameron was visibly slowing through the start finish area to keep eventual second place Kristine Brynjolfon in contact after the aptly named “Wailing Wall” a 14% grind to the finish line. Brynolfson’s Trek/Red truck teammate, Karlie Gendron rounded out the podium. Cameron’s winning time was 2:37:08 for the 67 km test featuring nearly 4000 feet of vertical gain.

Mission Mayor James Atebe was on hand to welcome the riders and observe the first laps from the follow car. He expressed his appreciation to the organizers and volunteers for their contribution to the healthy lifestyles we should all aspire to. His comments as he observed the riders’ efforts on the steep climbs and fearless descending showed his admiration for those who dedicate themselves to lofty goals.

The District of Mission was a key supporter of the event, granting a road closure on the Tyler road and providing their excellent Event Stage and many hours of staff time. A party atmosphere was maintained through the presence of the Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse BBQ Team providing post race burgers to all competitors as well as keeping the many volunteers well nourished.

Phoenix Velo’s next major event will be the Mission City Hall Road Race in June, stay tuned to the website here for details!