March 15, 2005 – Vancouver’s newest BC Cup cycling road race has been given the green light by Vancouver City Council, The Westside Classic will be the only cycling Road Race in the City of Vancouver for 2005 and is sure to attract huge crowds and a great field of riders from all over the Pacific Northwest. Three Hundred riders are expected to participate in the race, with funds raised going to support the BC Cancer Foundation.

As part of the Point Grey Fiesta Weekend, the June 19th race will take in some of the city’s most spectacular scenery with a 13km loop around the University of British Columbia, the beaches of Spanish Banks, and the very popular and vibrant Point Grey Village.

“Having the backdrop of the coastal mountains and the Pacific Ocean will draw riders to the city to race, some for the first time,” hopes race director Jonathan Wornell. ” The route takes in some roads that will be very familiar to local riders and a couple of interesting hills that will create some exciting racing for the crowds to see,” adds Wornell.

The start / finish area will be situated in the heart of the West Tenth Village with a total road closure for the final half kilometre.

Merchants in the area are expected to open their stores and have sidewalk stalls in a carnival like atmosphere and Sunday afternoon carnival rides in Trimble Park.

The race is being organised by the Wedgewood Cycling Team and will be one of their main fund raising initiatives for 2005 in support of the BC Cancer Foundation. The BC Cancer Foundation raises funds to support research and care at the BC Cancer Agency.

The Wedgewood Hotel, Washington Marine Group, Bean Around The World Coffee, Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic, and Body & Soul Fitness sponsor the Wedgewood Cycling Team.

More information: www.teamwedgewood.com