July 19, 2004 – The second edition of the Festival de Velo, presented by Dearborn Health Performance Care, takes to the streets of Downtown Kitchener on Sunday, July 25.

With our new location for the event, the Festival will hold the attention of both young and old – from antique bikes and local stores displaying the latest in merchandise, to the Poison Frogs (trial bike demonstrations). We’ll have a Festival atmosphere here at Kitchener City Hall.

The one-kilometre race circuit has been used in previous years for the Ontario Championships. “The King St. and Duke St. course will provide spectators with a lot of excitement,” says Race Director Chuck Hammell, President of the Waterloo Cycling Club. “I believe the quickest and most challenging section will be the Walper Terrace Hotel corner where the riders will hit over 60 kph in the afternoon Pro Race.”

Bicycle racers will travel from across Ontario, Michigan, and New York State. They will be competing for over $3,000.00 in Prizes. Racing begins at 9:00 a.m. and continues throughout the day. The feature 90-minute Pro 1-2 race begins at 3:00 p.m. and will average well over 44 kph on the tight one-kilometre circuit.

The 10:30 start time features the Women and Masters racing at the same time. “Lots of action & fireworks during this race,” promises Hammell.

At noon, there’s a special Novice Race planned for riders of all ages and abilities to compete for 20+-minute five laps. Register early if you want to race. Bring your bike to City Hall raceday morning. Entry fee for the novice/citizen race is $15.00. Each participant will receive a ribbon for participating in the race.

The Waterloo Cycling Club encourages everyone with a bicycle to come and watch the best racers in the country compete for this year’s Festival de Velo honours.

For more information on the Festival de Velo, visit our club website at: www.waterloocyclingclub.org