September 16, 2002 (Ronde des Vallées, Bretagne, France) – Having come off the plane two days before Sunday's race, the day started out rough with a 6km ITT at 8 AM. For Maxime Vives, Andrew Davidson and Marsh Cooper, the ITT didn't go too bad. Cabrel Boucher and Mark Pozniak had a bit of a rougher time but no worries.

In the afternoon, the stage was a 120km course with wind and hills, and a pack of 120 riders from different regions of France and a few Belgian team. Canada's Cam Evans was racing with Domo-Sweet Paradise. The race began pretty fast and furious with all riders wanting to be at the front of the peleton. Our guys were having some problems gaining position though they will learn how to keep their elbows out.

A break headed up the road after 15 km with Evans present in it. As for the other Canucks they were still trying to find their way to the front. From that point on it was an elimination race from the back and the guys wearing the maple leaf were still having some difficulties considering their jetlag and adjustement period – they were not quite there yet. In the end no Canadians were contenders as Cam who was in the final break, broke his chain and was forced to abandon.

All in all, this race was the first in a series of six to eight events that are destined to prepare our juniors for the Worlds. While this event was a rude awakening, I'm confident they will progress and be competitive for the Worlds. This system has worked in the past and will work again…

Jacques Landry

National development coach