Team Wedgewood Cyclocross Classic
New Brighton Park – Vancouver BC – October 3, 2009

Another very nice day blessed a good size field of 154 races, not including the premier Kids Cross event with 12 kids from 2 to 10 taking part. New Brighton has become a must do event on the BC Cross calendar partly because of the proximity to the bulk of riders in the lower mainland and partly due to the amazing topography that provides a near perfect venue for cyclocross.
The first categories to hit the course were beginner men and women as well as the U17 boys and girls. The course was still a little greasy from the morning dew but the beginners showed some skill in tackling the numerous off camber turns, steep little roll ups and two trips through the beach.

Next up was the B level men and the Elite and Master Women. The B men took off like a series of missles with Nic Hamilton making what was supposed to be his cross debut. He went on to win with Colin McArthur second and David Broemeling third. The women had to deal with catching some of the B men, which helped provide some excitement in their small field. Joele Guynup took the win with Jean-Ann McKirdy second and Kelly Jones third. Master women held their own in the mixed field with Stacey Hutton taking the win ahead of Nicola Mann and Karen Todd.

The biggest and fastest field of the day was last with the Elite men and Master 35+ men racing. The Elites showed everyone why they are the best. A fast leading group established itself early and the tactics began with everyone watching each other. With 2 laps to go Kevin Calhoun took off into the finishing straight thinking that the bell he heard last time though was for his race, when it was intended for the Masters. He came across the line only to hear 2 to go, 2 to go. He led for another lap but then got reeled in on the final round. The finish came down to a sprint with Craig Richey getting nipped at the line by Tyler Trace with Kevin Noiles third. Calhoun held on for fourth just ahead of Rob Britton.

The Master men had a similar race taking shape with a lead group playing a very tactical game. They almost made it look easy as they cruised through the rolling course. The leaders held together until Brad Collins made his move and came across solo for the win. Kim Steed got caught just at the line by Bob Welbourn for second with Roy Mcbeth and Derek Shiers rounding out the podium.

A great day in a great park. Thanks to The Wedgewood Cycling Team, Vancouver Parks and Opus bicycles.

Full Results can be downloaded here.

2009 photos and videos
Photos: Wedgewood Cycling Team Gallery
Photos: Triviana,Wedgewood Team Director
Photos: submitted by Ryan Cousineau
Photos: submitted by John Irvine Photography
Photos: submitted by Doug Brons
Video: submitted by Bill Riley