May 2, 2008 – The Echelon Project is an initiative aiming to help new riders make their way into the sport while providing interesting opportunities for young riders currently working hard. In 2007, the Echelon Project, with the support of the West Quebec Wheelers, entered a team in the 10-stage Tour of Martinique, held over nine days last July.

Martinique is a Carribbean Island and as part of France their Tour has a rich history and is a major event for the Island. We joined teams from the French Carribbean, France, Denmark, Holland and Switzerland in challenging the squads from Martinique – 96 riders started the race. Our team of four young espoirs, were the youngest and road brilliantly.

The Tour is hot and hilly and very well organized – the teams are well looked after. We are building a team with some up and coming talent but are looking for two to three solid senior 1/2 riders who are interested in trying something new and adventurous.

The level is not as high as Beauce but more of a quality club team level. The Danes, Dutch and French were experienced road men but not pro. The Danes had ridden Beauce but the heat, hills and local style shape much of the race. Last year’s event was won by a Colombian hired by a Martinique Team. This race means a lot in the Carribbean community.

We didn’t win much of the $10,000 in prizes but we earned the respect of the organizers and have been invited back. If you have ever wanted to try an international, 9-day stage race and experience some real mountains then this maybe an excellent opportunity. The trip will be partially financed by the organizers and the Echelon Project, but riders will be responsible for some of the costs.

Those interested must be Senior 1/2 riders, and as the race runs July 5-13, you must be willing to pass on Road Nationals this year. This invitation is open to Canadian riders not afraid to climb, who are ready for a challenge, and are prepared to fight to the finish.

If you think you might be the man for the job, contact me and tell me why.

John Large
Director Sportif
johnlarge@primus.ca
Echelon blog
www.echelonproject.ca/

“When opportunity knocks…..answer the door.