September 14, 2006 — Today saw the start of the Tour du Tobago 2006, Sept. 14-17. Cyclists rode some 20 kms against the clock on the south side of the Island at the Stage 1 ITT. Two Canadian teams took part in the 2006 Tour: Centre Atlantique National and Bell Canada/Vanhoutte and many Canadians feature prominently in today’s results.

Phill Cortes (Bell Canada/Vanhoutte) won the first stage and pulverized the course record with a time of 22:52. Teammate Ryan Bélliveau came in 34 seconds later, followed by American Hugh Moran (Toshiba) at 39 seconds.

Marc-Wayne Addison, sporting director of Bell Canada/Vanhoutte, exclaimed: “They took the first stage seriously and reaped the rewards. We came here for a stage victory for the team and we got it. Now all we have to do is roll along well between now and the fifth and final stage.” Addison usually works with the Calyon-Litespeed team.

“I’m happy and will defend the yellow jersey with honour. Our team now has the first two positions in the general classification,” said Cortes. “My team will support me and we have a good team spirit. For the rest, we will have to see”¦”

The 125-km Stage 2 begins later this afternoon.

Results — 20 km TT

1. Phill Cortes (Bell Canada/Vanhoutte)) 22 min 52 sec
2. Rayn Belliveau (Bell Canada/Vanhoutte) 34 seconds
3. Hugh Moran (Toshiba) 39 seconds

5. Bruno Langlois (Toshiba USA)
6. Jean-Sébastien Perron (Bell Canada/Vanhoutte).
8. Craig De Gier (Centre Atlantique National)
13. Jean-Michel Lachance (Centre Atlantique National)
16. Jean-Francois Racine (Centre Atlantique National)
31. Carl Desroches (Bell Canada/Vanhoutte).
34. Max Keeler (Centre Atlantique National)