Barrie wins 2012 VCC in classic style

On a weekend more suited to a cup of hot chocolate in front of the fire, the elite riders of the VCC, in the 2012 VCC finals, once again showed the heart and class which has captivated legions of fans. December 1st and 2nd are rarely fair-weather days in Vancouver, but this didn't deter the VCC's dedicated athletes from bringing out their best in a weekend double-header: the Gunner Shaw Memorial cross-country race at Jericho Beach Park, and the fabled Stanley Park Road Race.

Despite a clearing in the morning, at start time for the Gunner Shaw's 10k course of brutality the late fall weather had hit with full force. Jerry Ziak, the VCC's cross-country specialist, ran away from the field early on, leaving so-called "runner" ED struggling to keep him in sight. ED was later heard whining about the race being "too short" and "too flat"; speculation is that he forgot to loose his sandbags on the final hill. Nate Barrett, recovering from injury, came out and put in a manful performance, finishing 3rd in the VCC's standings on the day despite at one point mistaking the race for a triathlon and attempting to swim. Other notable performances came from Gilles de Belgique, finishing 3rd in the men's 25-29 division; from Troy Barrie, running strong to the finish line while carrying an extra 5 pounds of water in his stylish get-up; and Tak Takeda, holding on to his yellow jersey across the finish line despite thinking at the start that it was only a 5k race, and pacing himself accordingly.

All these legends of the fall (except, mysteriously, Mr. Ziak) were ready at the start line for Sunday's Stanley Park Road Race - 3.5 laps of the park, with 4 times up the grueling Hill. Despite an early clearing in the weather, the rain, true to form, came back. Nick rode off to a hard start, stringing out the peloton, but on the Hill he was pulled in by ED and Barrie, and the pack came back together. For two more laps Nick, ED, Barrie, Gilles de Belgique, and Tom rode in a tight peloton. The peloton broke when Barrie and Gilles de Belgique stopped to wait on ED with a "mechanical" - widely considered to be an excuse for not having to take on, and perhaps lose to, Nick on the final climb. These riders then timetrialed together with Tom to the base of the hill, with every rider throwing in big attacks in classic, exciting style. Barrie, launching an early attack to the finish at the base of the hill, was pulled in and passed by a charging ED, but cannily Barrie stayed on ED's wheel through the bend. Just like a Mark Cavendish to ED's Mark Renshaw, Barrie pulled out at the last minute before the line and charged away ahead of a helpless ED, to claim back the yellow jersey he has so desperately coveted. ED was heard uttering cries of "No! No! Nooooo!" as Barrie once again beat him to the line, shutting him out of the yellow jersey for his fifth VCC season. Gilles de Belgique and Tom finished strong on the heels of these seasoned VCC veterans, showing yet again the promise of the upcoming young riders.

In a display of incredible stamina, and the "one for all, all for one" spirit so characteristic of the VCC, all riders later adjourned to upscale local fine foods establishment "Frenchie's" to each do battle with a heaping pile of poutine. In the authoritative words of race director Eric Cessford: "In this final stage of the 2012 VCC, everyone emerged the victor. Except the poutine."

The VCC looks forward to welcoming you back next year!

Race Start Sunday changed to 10am!

Quick note to everyone planning on coming out tomorrow. We've moved the race start to 10am! As Tom enlightened me, it will be unlikely that many tourists will be out in Stanley Park on a rainy December morning. Meet at the same place, here for race start. Bring warm clothes - and we'll all head to Frenchie's after for some poutine!

As it'll be raining, we'll take the hill hard and go easy as a group through the rest of the hills and turns. We'll try. It might split wide open on the final lap of course. Just be careful out there eh, those skinny tires can't hold too much!

Congrats to Jerry Ziak, ED McCarthy and Nathan Barrett who were 1,2,3 at the Gunner Shaw today! Tak Takeda held onto his Yellow Jersey with a strong finish and is lucky enough to be wearing the overly-large jersey tomorrow.

 

VCC prepares for double event showdown to end the 2012 season

This weekend will see the final two events of the VCC 2012 season.  Athletes will kick off the festivities by running the 29th annual Gunner Shaw X-Country race on Saturday, December 1st at 10:30 am.  Meet at the scenic Jericho Sailing Centre at 9:30am to register.  Soup will be served post-race.  This is Vancouver's favourite event, a one of a kind, 9.5km XC race across mudpits, sand, field and trail. 

Sunday, Dec 2 will see the Stanley Park Road Ride kick off at 8:30am.  It's early, but we'll go for brunch at Frenchie's after!  Meet here for race start.  The race will have two cohorts - one that starts with Race Director Eric Cessford leading out the festivities with Ivan Basso, the rest of team Liquigas and all others not into hardcore racing at 8:30.  The second cohort at 8:34 is a hammerfest, show no mercy free for all; back by unpopular demand.  The race will see 3.5 laps of Stanley Park, culminating at the Lion-statue as the Stanley Park route enters the small bridge that crosses the Lions Gate Bridge.

Optional Pre-Weekend Scouting Report:
Tak Takeda, the current Yellow Jersey holder, will be going into the Gunner Shaw defending his first ever leader's jersey.  As Gunner Shaw is a points race based on one's finishing position, Tak finds himself directly competing for valuable middle of the pack points with Troy Barrie, Louise Oram, Chris MacDonald and the recently-seen-training Thomas '7min Beer Mile' Skinner.  These athletes, surfing the top of the Belle Curve are fighting for bigtime swing points as every position counts.  Trying to win via elite destiny, the gazelles of the VCC: the likes of Nathan Barrett, Thomas Nipen, Gilles and Nick Sunderland will try to gain as many points as possible and take an insurmountable lead from Gunner Shaw into the cycling race.  Indeed, we are pitting the fleet footed runners against the heavy-thighed crushers on the following day's bike ride.

While the reporters focus on the winners, the fans will focus on the characters.  Much interest is in Eric Cessford's first-ever-race-on-a-real-bike and the question remains: will his head-start at Stanley Park prove to be uncatchable?  The VCC is in the business of promoting the underdog and sending this fan-favourite out in front is smart money.  As well, we'd be amiss if we forgot to mention the three time VCC champ, the great Gregor Egan.  Much fear in the cycling world has trembled over his claims of 'best cycling shape ever' as he pushes strength and tan lines to new limits.  According to Endo Mondo, Egan has also been out on the running trail lately. Will this work on his form help him pace out a late attack?  Who will board that train once it gets going?  Will Eric Fung, Ross Richardsen, Chris Chong Ping or Julie Bertrand be game enough to run along?  Without off-the-couch running heroics Egan's inevitable cycling win in Stanley Park will only serve to fuel his legend but capture no silverware.  Will Elliot Holtham show up to win it all?  Does Davey Mitchell still exist?  Can Zach Garland fly back from Newfoundland to repeat his title? 

All these questions, questions that keep us up at night, will be answered this weekend.  The trails of Gunner Shaw are cold and daunting but the post-race soup of victory will have a taste of freedom beyond the confines of the box it came from.  The Stanley Park hill is a blunt weapon of exposure, take no negatatives into the dark room ahead,  only a vision of victory will find the power in one's legs. In the end, the one who drops the hammer last will capture the greatest of masterpieces on the road ahead.

East beats West in annual Grey Cup Football Game

16 brave souls showed up in the rain for an epic showdown that saw the east triumphing over the west and winning the pick-up Grey Cup football game.  The dividing line was Hope, BC and eastern Canada (and one Australian) proved to have the best endurance, outskilled on paper the east hung in with some clutch QB'ing from Brennan Lowrie.  First downs were achieved through Anthony and Ben Percy solidly moving the sticks.  Jon Haley proved tricky on the runs and the famed Western Defence of Greg Davis, Wreck Cessford and Brian Poole couldn't be in enough places at one time.  A big hurl to Greg Egan put the icing on the cake.  One bright spot in the Western Line-up was the elusive Tak Takeda, Tak had 12 catches for 346 yards and 4TDs to lead his team and claim MVP honours in the 2012 Grey Cup pick-up showdown.

A co-sponsored VCC event last Saturday saw Nathan Barrett come second in the Tom Skinner organized Phantom race.  This race saw a number of VCC athletes compete including Louise Oram (3rd), Nick Sunderland, Gilles and Kathryn.

Next weekend sees the last two VCC events on the 2012 calendar:  Dec 1 is the Gunner Shaw X-Country race and Dec 2 is the Stanley Park road ride.

Race Director Eric Cessford presents Tak Takeda with the Yellow Jersey as Race Leader.  Jon Haley holds the shoe the didn't fit.

New York City training ride renews VCC vigour

Select athletes from the Vancouver Cycle Series traveled to New York in an effort to petition for the unveiling of a VCC 2012 season.  Nathan Barrett, Tom Skinner and Troy Barrie were riding in support of the cause to finalize race plans for 2012.  The route was a 25km publicity circuit through areas such as Williamsburg, Dumbo, the Brooklyn Bridge and Red Hook among the hardest hit from Hurricane Sandy. The VCC trio did their best for the local community by supporting the local economy through purchases of hot chocolates, craft beer and expensive hostel stays.  Nathan Barret donated a pair of sweat pants and Tom Skinner took numerous photographs to document the recovery.

While accepting these ambassadors NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg defiantly stated that the VCC season would not be cancelled: "The VCC is too storied a campaign for any act of will to stop it's momentuous force. I support the work of the race organizers, the athletes who have trained, and the people of Vancouver. The show must go on."  In one last acceptance speech, while returning from the Brooklyn Bowl concert venue Bloomberg went on to state that: "No busy schedules, rainy day or low fitness level should ever amount to disempower Vancouver of its favourite race series."

With that, we announce the unveiling of the VCC 2012 season.

1. Nov 17, 9:30am, Carnavon Park: Grey Cup Football Annual game: 10 pts for Game MVP, 5 pts for all members of the winning team. 2pts for losing team.
2. Dec 1: Gunner Shaw Cross-country Running Race: 9.5km around Jericho Beach. 10 pts for first place decreasing by 1 thereafter.
3. Dec 2: Stanley Park Road Ride: 20 points for 1st Place, descreasing by 2 thereafter.

VCC salutes hidden Cycling Prowess!

The VCC salutes Martyn Ashton for coyly creating the video below.  He makes it appear that he wants us to focus on his flashy tricks.  But true 'performance-minded' athletes such as us here at the VCC are purely focusing on his cycling prowess.  Watch Martyn dance on his pedals at 1:27, show off his full power in the Wheel of Death at 2:39.  He even goes on in fine time-trial form at 4:25 - clearly demonstrating that he is a time-trialer to be reckoned with.  Congrats Martyn.  You've done the VCC proud.  Hiding your strengths until the final hill, when everyone thinks you're just out there for a double-back flip out on a golf course, that's when you'll let Performance reign and pull out the big gear.  We'll see you in Stanley Park.

Zach Garland Hammers to 2011 VCC Season Title at the Duathlon

The annual 'Troy's Duathlon' concluded a fabulous VCC season in epic form - costume clad racers finished off a great year on Halloween weekend with a Cycle-Orienteer-Cycle race that tested both the legs and the minds of Vancouver's top cyclists.

The stage victor was Thomas Nipen, back in 8th place after the first cycling stage he powered his way to a large lead through the Orienteering component and never looked back on the second cycling leg to win his first ever VCC stage race. Give him a map and the Norwegian orienteering hero simply cannot be beat.

For the title of 2011 VCC champion, all eyes were on Zach Garland as he secured enough overall points to wrap up his first VCC championship! Overall an incredible performance this year as the cheery Newfy 'Temple of Doom'd' himself into the hearts of all excitement-hungry Vancouver cycling fans.

All Zach required was a strong finish and although he was tested on the orienteering course he was able to deliver under the Halloween guise of a newfoundland seal clubber. His big chain rings powered him home for a 4th place finish with enough points to wrap up the 2011 VCC season title. All this while wearing bloody jeans,suspenders-on-plaid and carrying a modified, sawed-off golf club forming the traditional seal-clubbing hakapik.

Also contending for the title, a French Maid that looked disastrously similar to a certain Tom Skinner narrowly beat out the Greek combo of Plato and Aristotle of Adam Quiring and Jon Haley. Not only did their robes keep getting stuck in their gears but they were a little underdressed for the conditions and quickly discovered that Togas were better for philosophy and keg parties than early morning cycle races. Batman (Andrew Singh) ever-dangerous was an early favourite although he was Riddle'd by the orienteering course and finished beside a Pineapple (Julie Bertrand) running her second race of the day and clearly there solely for the moral support for second-place finisher Troy the cycling-super hero. Troy's costume included a cape, mask, mullet-wig and a two-foot long paper-mache teardrop helmet that in no way was able to help his aerodynamics. Brian Poole and Louise Oram also put in solid solo bids for victory but were hampered ultimately by a lack of costume inspiration.

Race Director Eric Cessford was present - although no one recognized him in his Russian Peasant woman costume that apparently was actually supposed to be Death. We were not the wiser although a little disapointed there was no post-race Borscht. In any case, his hallowed words did echo his morbid support for the successful VCC season that was. "On to 2012 race fans! More secret training, more sandbagging, more pain on the hills." Spring road trips on the radar include the Sunshine Coast, Pemberton-Lilloet-Hope as well as anything involving a circle tour of Gulf Islands. Stay in touch, stay in spandex.

Final Event of the Season this Sunday - The Duathlon

The final event of the season is to take place this Sunday at 1PM. We've saved the best for last. A Halloween-costumed themed 'Bike-Run-Bike' Duathlon that has always been our largest draw!

Meet at Blanca and 16th Ave. For a 1PM start! Start, transition zone and Finish will all be at this location. So you can bring your running shoes and leave them here to change into.

Some type of a costume is mandatory. Choose wisely. We advise that aerodynamics be considered! Mine. Is. Finished. (and looks pretty sharp!)

New for this year! Maps will be provided for the run portion and the run course will actually be a full-on Sprint course created by National O Athletes!! This course will be a mix of urban and of course the beautiful trails of Pacific Spirit Park.

The format for the Duathlon this year will be Bike-Run-Bike. The Bike loop will be the same for both bike portions! We will do the first bike leg together (it winds around beautiful Pac Spirit park) so that everyone knows where to go and then the second will be the important one to the finish! The bike to run transition zone is to be at Blanca and 16th and the run course this year is the Orienteering event that will see 3km of 'straight-line' distance. Your map-reading and intuitive sense of direction will be your greatest ally! The final Bike section will be around 10km as a sprint to the finish.

Because we expect a large turn-out for this event there will be hefty VCC points on the line. Expect the 2011 VCC champion to need to place near the top of the leaderboard in this event to claim the title. Thus, we are all still wickedly in the hunt for the Yellow Jersey. The chance to become champion in Vancouver's greatest cycling event is still yours to be had!

'Blue Sky' Triple Crown Decided by Sprint Finish!

A beautiful day on the roads began with blue skies, signifying the energy of the unknown. The race was up for grabs, with only the toughest able to take home the prize: A place in history as a finisher in the VCC's prestigious enduro event.

In the end, a clear winner, Zach Garland lived up to the intense pre-race pressure. An increase in intensity at Cypress's steepest section just beyond the first lookout and the day's winner was solo to the finish line. "This race confirms that my Gran Fondo win was no fluke. My sponsors stuck with me all year and it was good to get this one near the end of the season!" Garland said in a post-race statement.

But within sight of the winner, a new first for the VCC took place. For the first time ever in a Triple Crown a 'sprint-finish' was actually contested at the end providing a dramatic conclusion to the podium.

Seymour: Moderation was the key word for the first climb. In respect of the day's difficulty there was a seemingly cautious approach to the toughest climb of the day with Zack Garland and ChrisMacDonald separating themselves from the peleton only at the very end. Drama occurred as Tim Philpott, the day's Yellow Jersey 'wearer' had the yellow jersey fall out of his back pocket and get caught in his rear sprocket adding a few character stains to an already storied jersey.

Grouse: Early lead-outs destroyed the peleton on Grouse and a number of dynamic duos blew apart any semblance of a group ride. Garland led MacDonald up the hill, with Philpott putting the pressure on Barrie 50m back. Adam Quiring burst away from the peleton to bridge the summit with Ben Percy and Andrew Shing close on his heels.

Cypress: Troy Barrie, participating in his fifth VCC Triple Crown race set an extreme early lead-out pace. "I have so much respect for these mountains. I just wanted to keep these other guys honest. I was gonna blow up for sure, but ya gotta bleed for the Triple Crown!" The early lead-out pace struck pain in the peleton and casualties were quick. Quiring and Shing became unhinged from the train and moments later Philpott succumbed to the mountain and the pace. Then, just as Barrie was looking for more - instantly it was over - Garland was gone and the excitement came down to a race for second place between Barrie and MacDonald.

Thousands of fans crowding the finish line were not disappointed, in that lead-out for second place MacDonald was dropped twice by a surging Barrie, each time working his way back up to the back wheel! With the finish line in sight, a decisive maneuver, a burst of speed timed to perfection and MacDonald had secured second place.

Special congrats to Andrew Shing for toughing it out and completing his first attempt. He claims it was the toughest thing he's ever done. And he's a marathoner.... In any case, we saw him get some serious shakes at Grouse, so completing Cypress post-bonk is a serious feat. Adam Quiring used his fine Ironman form to complete his second attempt at the Trip with a 5th place finish. Tim Philpott wore the Yellow Jersey proudly, took the lead in the peleton often and put in a pretty solid ride for 4th.

A link to the elevation profile, distance, etc.. 130km (my battery died at 106km), 2263m total climbing. http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/55459168

Left to Right: Barrie (wearing garbage bag), Champ Garland, Previous Yellow Jersey Philpott, MacDonald, Quiring and Shing warming up at the lookout after completing the ride.

ElitePoint Issue 1: Adam Quiring

Every week, the ElitePoint Mag highlights one VCC Rider to describe their profile, their training and their determination to conquer and succeed. Issue #1 highlights Adam Quiring:

We missed the timely announcement. But it happened folks! The VCC took a giant step forward this summer when Adam Quiring completed the Penticton Ironman! This dream - initially sparked thru a visit to the 2010 Ironman as a spectator and a training ride on the bike course - became a reality at the end of August in a time of 12:37:57.

Albeit, true that he does admit that a main motivator to registering for the Ironman would ensure that he actually had to get into shape, Adam captured the essence of the 'off-the-couch' athlete coming out of retirement with a solid effort for the goal. "My entire plan was to only go training when I felt like it. It was a solid dedication but I kept all that training as a positive!"

This accomplishment gives hope to us all. If you distinguish yourself as either a 'used-to-be serious' or as one of the 'probably-could've-but-never-dids', then there is hope. AQ may have just laid out the path.

Today, Adam has the specific honour of being ElitePoint's celebratory first-issue as he has brought the most amount of people out to VCC events this season. Keith Mewis, Paul Carter have made strong debuts and the VCC has released an Orange-Alert warning for the upcoming appearance of Martin "10-speed" Bitter at the Triple Crown! Martin proudly leaves the Granny gears at home, rides his bike in running shoes without clips - and crushes all opponents as he goes. Those manly gears are about to get spun!

Most importantly, Adam's successful invitation towards the entire Queen's University Women's Cycling Team has made the VCC one of the best ways for female cyclists to comfortably get involved in the cycling circuit. We here at the VCC are quite grateful for the media and promotions!

Adam, as the initial cover story athlete, your ElitePoint ballpoint pen is in the mail. And fans, we should have the T-shirts available for sale soon...

Adam now sets his sights on his first completion of the Triple Crown. With Ironman training under his belt he may now have what it takes to put in a special attack on Cypress and make that day an October 23rd to remember!

ITT Results!

Race organisers are a little flushed at the moment, but the following are the results of a great race out at UBC Tuesday night.

A spirited affair with a number of very close finishes! Congrats to Zach on his first VCC stage win (on his third visit). Zach also managed to set a new course record by 6 seconds over the previous 2008 record set by Barry Claman. Katherine Wilson with the fastest woman's time on her first time out!

Results (10.2km with the NW Marine Hill):

1. Zach Garland 14:59 30pts
2. Chris MacDonald 15:50 27pts
3. Dave 'Atom Smasher' 16:10 25pts
4. Tim Philpott 16:18 23pts
5. Colin Campbell 16:21 22pts
6. Elliot Holtham 16:22 20pts
7. Keegan 17:01 19pts
8. Keith Mewis 17:03 18pts
9. Paul Carter 17:05 17pts
10. Troy Barrie 17:41 16pts
11. Eric Fung 18:05
12. Adam Quiring 18:34
13. Tak Takeda 18:40 (1:19 faster to 2008 result!)
14. Rob Kehoe 18:50
15. Katherine Wilson 19:03 11pts
16. Paul Canin 19:19 10pts
17. Megan Wolfe 19:40 9pts
18. Ben Percy 19:51 8pts
19. Heidi Manicke 19:52 7pts
20. Jon Haley 19:54 6pts
21. Kayla McIntyre 19:56 5pts
22. Aggie 20:37 4pts
23. Julie Bertrand 21:00 3pts
24. Aileen Tien 21:45 2pts
25. Nicole Burnham 21:50 1pt
26. Ben Sammy 22:03
27. Jesse Riesen 22:17

There was also a TTT. But I messed up the start times, and then the finish co-incided with a traffic jam, a rainstorm and darkness. But I think we still had a good time on that one...

For those interested: This same course distance was run in 2008. The year of the infamous Barrie/Barrett Cross-Canada ride and the Holtham/Mitchell/Egan commute everyday to work summer... Abbreviated results below:

1. Claman 15:05
2. Elliot Holtham 15:31
5. Troy Barrie 16:10
6. Davey Mitchell 16:35
9. Greg Egan 17:07
10. Curtis Mullen 17:12
12. ED 17:21
15. Eric Fung 17:45
21. Tak Takeda 19:59 *The only rider to have improved since 2008!

Next Race and Beach Campfire a Go for Tuesday Sept 27

Votes are in! The Vancouver Cycle Series brass has decided to go ahead with a scheduled date for the next race, Tuesday September 27.

More importantly, we guarantee that you'll have fun. We also guarantee that it will not Rain. No but seriously, it'll rain in the morning, but it totally won't in the evening. When we all wake up, we gotta know this and trust it, pack our bags, go to work, expect to race. It'll all work out. We promise.

Oh, did we mention the epic-'ness' of the NW Marine Drive hill? It's an experience you don't want to miss. Race organizers expected that everyone would be coming from downtown area and would have to ride up it regardless. So, we just put it in the race. People go to Ironman's for a reason?

The first race of the day will be the Individual Time Trial starting here, at Sasamat St along NW Marine Drive. Initial racers will leave at 5:45 and the last group of riders will leave by 6:15. Show up as early as possible within that range and we'll fit you into the schedule with 1 minute gaps.

If you can't make the ITT, feel free to join us at 6:50 here for the second race.

When all racers have completed the ITT. Times will be sorted and racers will be grouped with their closest competitors in the Team Time Trial. Using some math, slower teams will be sent out first with the intention that all teams will arrive at the finish line at the exact same time. First one across the line will be the winner. Thus, a race truly designed for victory to the rider who puts in the most effort.

After the race, weather depending but remember that conditions will improve all day, a beach fire will be set-up at Towers beach, trailhead here. Guitars, hot-dogs, roasted marshmellows. If you're driving, it's probably not a bad idea to park at the Rose Garden Parkade.

ITT course will be along Jericho beach, up NW Marine Drive and down along Marine to Kullahun Drive. 10.1km.

TTT course will be a loop and a bit around Pacific Spirit Park (NW Marine, 16th Ave, Camosun). 12.7km.

Stanley Park Crit Proves Fierce

A total of 31 riders took on the fearsome Prospect Point climb over multiple laps creating an exciting start to the season!

Rob Warren rode away to a spectacular solo victory with a breakaway on lap 2at Stage 1 of the VCC's 2011 season. Warren's ferocious pace established an early pain train that stretched a long line of riders as they weaved along Stanley Park Drive. The pace was set high early and the first hill caused a major split in the peleton as a group of four riders escaped. Past VCC champ Elliot Holtham held on to an incredible pace set by Tim Philpott, Rob Warren and an unidentified rider.

Yes. We had no idea who he was.

A furious chase group was set up with Mike, Troy Barrie and a monster-effort from Keith Mewis flicking elbows and taking turns to bridge the gap. The chase group was eventually successful when a slowing of the pace allowed the breakaway group to get reeled in (we still don't know who that guy was!). Then, at the Harry Jerome statue disaster struck. A red pick-up caused a major disturbance conveniently timed by an explosion at the front and the peleton was blown to bits once again this time with Mewis and Mike cut-off, Rob Warren became the benefactor as he outpaced all rivals and was never seen again. Unlike the 'come-back king' of the statue, Mewis and Mike were unable to bridge the distance back to the leaders after this misfortune.

The chase group went back to work. This time long-time rivals Holtham and Barrie were once again ironically forced to work together to give chase and protect their own positions. Rookie Tim Philpott was also with the group and displayed an impressive amount of gumption taking major turns with this pack. Mysteriously, Chase 1 was caught by Chase 2 somewhere before the second hill climb. Sebastian and Haywood (judging by the name on his bike shorts) came completely out of the blue to rejoin the pack. Keegan was also able to rejoin with the chase group at this stage and made an attempt to attack and go clear amidst the confusion. But the pack, fooled earlier by Warren's antics, was wiser and responded to this EV attack in unison. Haywood attacked! But Barrie, fresh after riding behind Philpott for a lap was able to bring Haywood back.

The finishing sprint between the chase group, led into the final climb by Tim Philpott, was a sprint between Sebastian and Elliot Holtham for final spots on the podium.

In the Fun Race, Takuma Takeda proved the Vegas odds on him to win were true. Caught in No Man's land between the elites and the fun races Tak was left to cruise to victory ahead of a trio of XX's - Megan Wolfe, Kayla MacIntyre and Julie Bertrand rounded out the next spots.

Results - Pain Race

Rob Warren 20pts
Elliot Holtham 17
Sebastien 15
Tim Philpott 13
Troy Barrie 12
Keegan 10
Mike 9

Keith Mewis 8

Heidi Manicke 7

Vincent LaVallee 6

Nate Barrett 5

Adam Quiring 4
Thomas Nipen-Barrie 3

ED McCarthy In-attendance 2

John Markez In-attendance 2

'Haywood' DNF 1

Unidentified Man DNF 1

Red Backpack Guy DNF 1

Mike and Vincent's friend DNF 1

Results - Less-Pain Race

Tak Takeda 13

Megan Wolfe 11

Kayla MacIntyre 9

Julie Bertrand 7
Ben Percy 6
Viviane Dubois-Cote 4
Nicole Burnham 3

Ryan Kilpatrick 2

Molly Brewis 1

Aileen Tien Assistant Race Director 3

Cam Egan 0

Summer is Gone. Good Riddance. Tonight's event is rain or shine.

I'm highly expecting sunshine tho...

Turn-out seems unusually high. We'll see y'all out tonight!

Stanley Park Race this Thursday!

Another season of racing is upon us!

The Vancouver Cycle Series proudly presents our 2011 Fall racing schedule. We would like to invite you all to our opening event which should feature a race that is suited for riders that have been doing this for awhile as well as riders just getting into it.

First Race: Thursday. Sept 15th - Stanley Park. Please meet here, at 6:20PM, at the corner of Stanley Park Drive and N Lagoon Dr. Race to start at 6:30.

See more of the schedule here: www.vancouvercycleseries.blogspot.com

There will be two races run concurrently! A 3.5 lap course for the elites (best suited for Cat 3,4) and a 2.5 lap course for beginners, commuters and people generally interested in cycling but that may not have raced too much. Just like looking good in spandex? This event is just for you! We do like to think of us being the bridge into racing for many riders in Vancouver that are curious about what it's all about.

We'll start the race riding out together until we get to the first hill where we'll use the 'hammer-drop' technique to split into the two groups. There are many climax references that could describe the first 10 seconds of the Prospect Point Hill climb - but I always like to leave the full description to one's imagination. Pain Ride and Fun Ride are decent descriptions of our two categories....

These races are just for kicks. Riding in groups and testing each other out a little bit in that fun type of way. No one here takes themselves too seriously - and intimidating is probably the furthest thing one should expect. Full Road Safety rules apply.

Former Vancouver Cycle Series Champion wins Vancouver Triathlon!

Only three years after winning his 2nd Vancouver Cycle Series title in 2008, Elliot Holtham is back on top of the podium - this time for winning the 2011 Vancouver Triathlon.

After a sluggish start in the water, Holtham shattered the bike course and cruised through the 10km run on route to victory. "This is one of the biggest," remarked a clearly emotional Holtham when asked during the post-race press conference where this win ranks in his career. "It's probably even bigger than my first VCC title, but you know, I'll never forget the first time I took down (Troy) Barrie. After being disqualified in 2005, and dropped by Barrie on the slopes of Cypress in 2006, I knew I needed to dedicate my life to training harder and well... here I am today."

Troy Barrie, VCC Co-founder and former champion, has been a long time nemesis of Holtham. While their quarrels (like the questionable DQ) have made headlines for a while, Barrie had nothing but praise for his former rival after the race. "This is a huge day for the Vancouver Cycle Series and I couldn't be prouder," commented Barrie. "This win will bring some publicity to the VCC and we will embrace it."

The victory caps 4 years of full-time training for Holtham since graduating from UBC in 2007. Rumors were swirling that Holtham was working on a PhD, but those were quickly put to rest when nothing materialized.

With only two days remaining until the start of the 2011 VCC, many questions remain unanswered. Will Holtham make his triumphant return? Will former champions Barrie or Egan return to past form? Will a newcomer steal the thunder? Find out Thursday at Stanley Park.

2011 VCC Season Unveiled

The 2011 VCC Season has been unveiled in a historic press Conference early this morning held at the Fraser Arms Hotel. Race Director Eric Cessford and Co-founder Greg Egan were on hand to make the grand announcement complete with race descriptions and dates.

Rumours were swirling about the whereabouts of star rider Troy Barrie who was unable to be contacted by the press. At press time it is unknown if the VCC Biological Passport team was able to locate him for his weekly test. "This is so like Troy Barrie," complained rider Eric Fung. "He's probably had at least a two week head start on all of us in this year's training! Now he misses this press conference? I bet he's doing repeats on Cypress!"

Greg Egan was able to reel in the media to ensure that the focus stayed on the VCC. This year there will be five races before the final. Each ride will give out a series of points based on finish. The best three out of five races will count towards a riders total points before the final race. And points in the final race will be increased to ensure that the final race will determine the champion.

The VCC will consist of the following races:

Sept 15 - Stanley Park Crit: There will be two races within this stage. An elite group will run 3.5 laps to a mountain finish atop Prospect Point. A second group will start at the same time but will only be required to race 2.5 laps. Both races will award the same amount of overall points - thus, the VCC will maintain it's efforts to be applicable to all racers. We actually are expecting a large number of racers to come out for both races. Elite riders and beginners alike will find a way to enjoy this ride!

Sept 27 - ITT and TTT (stages 2 and 3): A very exciting day of racing will begin with the hotly contested NW Marine Drive ITT. Starting from the Beach to Kullahun Drive. This short little blast has seen average speeds of 45kph after the hill climb (G.Egan 2008). Immediately after this race, your ITT times will be scaled up to a longer course. You will be put into a team of three with your closest finishers (1,2,3 then 4,5,6 then 7,8,9 etc...). This team of three will constitute your team in the TTT. However, your team's start time will be delayed in a scaled proportion to your average ITT time. This is an attempt to even out all racers. In this pursuit race it will be the first person across the line wins. So all riders will have an equal chance of winning!

Oct 15 - The Triple Crown: This is the pinnacle event of the VCC. Some may say the climax of our event and an apex on the Vancouver cycling season. This summit stage will feature hill climbs to the top of Seymour, the bottom of the gondola in Grouse and the summit of Cypress. It is very likely that many riders will be interested in doing the Triple Crown for their first time. Therefore, the pace of the ride will be geared to keep everyone together over the first two mountains and 'the race' will not start until the bottom of Cypress. Book off the entire day for this mountainous achievement.

Oct 29 - Troy's Duathlon: The annual Halloween costume ride is back. Traditionally, this race is run as a Bike-Run-Bike however this year we are going to embrace the fact that somebody inevitably will get lost on this course and maps will be provided. It could even turn out to be a Bike-Orienteer-Bike celebrating Nate and Troy's trip to the Yukon.

Nov 5 - The Final - Greg's Gruel: Greg's Gruel will be a points race with points atop 3 hills and the finish. The course is the traditional course beginning at UBC, down SW Marine, up Camosun, up 8th Ave Alma to Blanca, back down 4th, up NW Marine and then to UBC for a finish. Will Greg have something to celebrate on his birthday? Will he be in town on his birthday? Nobody knows!

Tour de Coldstream Revived Again

After many years away the Tour de Coldstream organisers were able to return to their hometown in cycling fashion.

A devastating single-stage race took place in the midst of the Okanagan heat with hometown favourite Greg Egan establishing himself as the ultimate rider on the day. Egan initially dropped all opponents on the Rawlings Lake Hill however riders Tak Takeda and Eric Fung were able to reel him in with the rest of the 27 rider peleton in tow.

The decisive stroke came at the mountaintop finish atop Buchanan Hill as Egan powered away from the bunch in time to turn around and take photos.

The 2011 Tour de Coldstream champion is also the de facto 2010 VCC champ as the race was unable to be held last year due to squabbling teams, disorganisation from the sponsors and Race Director Eric Cessford's absence on a reconaissance mission to Europe. Greg Egan has now claimed his third VCC championship after back to back victories in '02, '03.

Race Director Eric Cessford Euro Reconaissance

Race Director Eric Cessford has returned from his wildly publicised and highly successful reconnaissance mission to Europe.

"I've come back from the heart of cycling and am ready to bring all I've learned to the 2011 VCC" Cessford stated. "I promise a very different race scene. This year could be the best ever for cycling in Vancouver."

Cessford spoke to the European Media at a press conference held last week at Rome's Coliseum. There was raucous applause after he announced the upcoming VCC Race Dates and the press conference was called short because riders and members of the public began storming the stage . The after-party was apparently unreal as Cessford was seen quickly boarding a train to Prague with members of an unidentified Italian Cycling team.


"This new VCC season will bring something for all types of riders. We will find a way to please both the top riders, as well as open our doors to new enthusiasts of the sport. I thank the European sport directors for their hospitality." Were Cessford's final statements as he shuffled out of his destroyed hotel room. "From what I

remember of this european experience, there is a huge opportunity to improve the Cycling Party scene in Vancouver. This is my 2011 goal."

And as tradition suits, Cess's return trip home saw him stop in with his good buddy, Lance Armstrong. "I always go for a ride with this incredible ambassador of the sport" Armstrong was quoted post-ride as he relaxed on his cooler. "We went for a 100mile ride and the guy still wanted more. Look at him on that bike. That's commitment!"

Barrie Places Second at Tour de Ghana

With traditional Vancouver Cycle Series timing just around the corner the Vancouver cycling community was rocked by the re-emergence of one of it's best stars. For long in Vancouver, riders like Davey Mitchell and Elliot Holtham were enjoying cycling supremacy with their long-time rival Troy Barrie mysteriously absent from the scene following his inability to finish on the podium in the 2009 VCC standings.

But things have changed. Word out of Ghana is that Barrie is alive and training well. His second place finish in the big African event confirms that his form is returning for a run at the as-of-yet unscheduled 2010 VCC season.

Race Director Eric Cessford commented on the 2nd place finish. "This is great news for the VCC. We weren't sure if it was going to happen this year but the excitement generated by Barrie's finish will confirm we have the publicity to hold an event in 2010. Cycling fans get ready. The VCC will run this year!"

An announcement is expected in September that will call for an October start time to the classic race. Leaked stories have shown that the VCC will go back to its roots with a shortened schedule of all-inclusive races designed to entertain. Also, included in the report were drastic plans for the VCC to expand to a large, entry-fee and highly competitive race series in 2011.

Barrie's form looked to be peaking in Ghana. He narrowly missed first place in the event when he was being edged in the final sprint and had to slow down and come around the eventual winner Iyaad of Lebanon. "Iyaad has great speed, when I had to change direction it was too much for me to overcome. I have huge respect for my fellow riders in this fast-paced event. We did the whole 50km at such a fast pace, I really had my work cut out for me."

Performance. It's the Name of the Game.

Robin Moore has earned honourary VCC member status with the above video that entirely captures the essence of the sport we love.

Congratulations Robin. The cycling world is in respect.

A Legendary Finish in Stanley Park

The bells have rung, the sun has gone down, the spectators have cleared away, the finish line equipment packed up to lie dormant until next year; the Gregor Robertson Cup has been passed on, the sweet champagne of success has been tasted, the sour grapes of loss choked down; the gruelling 2009 season of the Vancouver Cycle Series is finished, and an epic season it has been. In its new summer format the VCC, historically a series with races spaced by weeks, allowed only one rest day, pushing the muscular endurance of the riders to their limits. At the end of it all, despite the best efforts of two-time defending champion Elliot Holtham of Team t/0 and the heroic striving of Eric Fung, the early leader from Team Top Choice Pizza, Team Blood Transfusion's super-sophomore Curtis Mullen reigned supreme, garnering the nectar of the hallowed yellow jersey to go with the ambrosia of the accolades from the admiring crowds.

Pictured: the joy of victory and the agony of defeat.



The series came to a head in the traditional Stanley Park Road Race, an event often compared to the notorious Paris-Roubaix race for the challenges it offers to riders. Two and a half laps of Stanley Park, finishing on top of the Hill, were a daunting prospect for even the most seasoned veterans of the VCC, the creme de la creme of Vancouver's cyclists. With no sprint points and the Cup on the line, this race was to be all about the finish.

Fung set the early pace, surrounded by the giants of the peloton. Gregor Egan, as is his habit, began to set a punishing pace into the climb, and Mullen gradually took the lead, and broke the pack apart with a fast paced first climb up the Hill, in which he eventually pulled away, only to be caught on the treacherous descent of the Col du Stanley by the remaining pack. This elite group remained vigilant, as the combative Vince Lavallee made several testing attacks. Mullen once again broke away on the second climb of the Hill, joined only by Fung, exerting himself to the utmost in the defence of his jersey, as Blood Transfusion captain ED, leading the other riders, declined to chase his teammate. As Mullen and Fung slowed, ED attempted an attack from the front, dropping TCP captain Tron Barrie and Gregor Egan, and was joined by Mullen, but ED, clearly suffering from the absence of TOM, the Frank to his Andy (or is it the Andy to his Frank?) was pulled in by the peloton over the crest of the hill. This group once again chased down Mullen and a still attacking Lavallee.

Thus the race between the leaders came down to the final climb. As the riders jostled and played high strategy, however, the indefatigable Barrie, the veritable titan of the VCC, not only caught but blew by the lead group with a vicious attack. Displaying inexplicably Contadorian treachery to his team captain, Fung led the attack, pulling the group back to Barrie. On the climb, Lavallee attacked once more, bringing only Mullen, still fighting, with him. ED, displaying his customary lack of tactics, began his chase for third. As his group caught Lavallee, Holtham made his first big move of the race with a massive acceleration that left ED in the dust and caught Mullen. These two riders duked it out, with Mullen celebrating wildly and reportedly yelling "F*** yeah!" as he crossed the line in first. Holtham's teammate and t/0 co-captain Davey Mitchell brought his legendary sprint to bear to beat ED to the line for third. Lavallee held on for fifth, followed by Fung in yellow, Barrie, Egan, Tak Takeda, Tom Skinner (hampered by his lack of alcohol), Adam Quiring, Will, and Steve Mullen (the Romain to Curtis' Brice).

Interviewed after the race, Mullen was ecstatic. "The Team Blood Transfusion training program has worked wonders for my racing," he said, "particularly all the training camps in Mex - I mean, Italy. Because of the team's support, at the start of this race I knew that no one would have the juice to go with me." ED, thrilled with his teammate's victory, said "Finally, after all these years - a victory for Team Blood Transfusion! Perhaps this will finally put all those nasty rumours about us to rest. With Curtis, we simply saw a promising young rider last season, picked him up, and developed him through the year. What you see is the result of our superior, uh, training program."

Holtham, piqued at being nipped at the line, could not be reached by reporters as he pedaled away on what could only be a training ride immediately following the race. Barrie, reportedly, swore to isolate himself from teammates and competitors for a season and come back fitter than ever.

And that was that! Until next year... keep your wheels on the road.

Eric Fung 2nd in ITT, 5th in Pursuit: Takes the Yellow Jersey

With one last stage to go Eric Fung leads the way in the VCC! Curtis Mullen and Sean Mactavish have had dreams answered and training hours justified with statement victories in the first two stages.

Stages 1 and 2 of the 2009 Vancouver Cycle Series went off with a bang, even the experts could not predict what drama was to unfold. The race began with a 6.2km ITT won by Curtis Mullen averaging an impressive 45.1km/hr, Mullen had a large gap of 40 seconds over surprise 2nd place Eric Fung. Fung indeed came from nowhere, a summer of hidden training put him 1second faster than Top Choice Teammate Troy Barrie. Elliot Holtham, Greg Egan and Tom Skinner were all seconds behind.

Fung had a very impressive 2nd place in the ITT before holding his own in the pursuit giving him the points he needed to wear the Yellow Jersey in tuesday's final stage. He is pictured in white, racing Greg Egan (Blue) to the line narrowly ahead of Troy Barrie and Elliot Holtham (both red) in the pursuit stage.

Stage 2 adventurously went beyond familiar race designs with the intention of a pursuit stage. The new course was 14.5km and the riders' ITT finishing times were extrapolated to the larger stage. Riders were sent off on the pursuit in reverse finishing order with the time gaps proportional to their ITT finishing times. The design worked to perfection as a number of chase groups formed on the course as they chased down the stage leaders!

Seasoned VCC vet Davey Mitchell, lost time in the ITT after being blocked by emergency vehicles (investigation into TCP tactics pending) but it allowed him an earlier start time in the pursuit. Mitchell teamed up with Sean Mactavish and Brad Christie before eventually reeling in the escape groups of Brian Poole, Marcin Mirski and Takuma Takeda. In a group not far behind rode Adam Quiring and Art who were victims of the express train when they were caught by the peleton formed by the big boys of the ITT. Annual rivals Barrie and Holtham ironically were forced to be team mates putting individual glory aside to reel-in the riders far ahead. Together with Fung (who put a world of hurt on them for his pulls) the well-oiled machine quickly caught Egan and Skinner and with them aboard the train they continued north for a shot at victory. ITT champ Mullen was out of luck, his ITT time was so fast it set him too far back to catch his closest rivals all working as a team.

Yet in the end, the advantage held by Mitchell, Mactavish and Poole was too much to overcome for the enslaught of fury behind them. With Mitchell powerfully leading the fray in an effort to stay ahead, the lead group maintained their edge clear to the finish. In a spectacular move at the line, Sean Mactavish picked up his first stage win pulling around the workhorse for victory. A first VCC appearance and a first stage win to boot!

The final stage will take place on Tuesday, July 21st for 3 laps of Stanley Park. Meet at the North End of the Burrard Bridge at 7pm for another attack-filled hammerfest. The Yellow Jersey and the Gregor Robertson Cup on the line!

VCC is Back!

The 2009 Vancouver Cycle Series has been unveiled in a whir of excitement and panic preparation. VCC brass have convened upon Vancouver for a re-union of Vancouver's finest; a reunion to take place on the infamous tarmac and legendary streets of our beautiful city.

Today's unveiling by Race Director Eric Cessford has shocked the cycling world! Cyclists everywhere are hurriedly prepping their bicycles, adding the necessary oil and losing the unwanted weight. Bikelights, Brakes, Seatposts, Reflectors and Handlebar Tape are all items that may be rid in efforts to gain precious seconds over fellow frienemies on the course.

This year's series will consist of two days of racing. The first day being this upcoming Sunday, July 19. We will meet at 6PM at 4557 W 14th Ave, the course has not been fully decided but it be a fun group ride that may consist of a very short Ind. Time Trial and/or a Bunch Sprint at the end.

Leg Two will be the big test for cyclists vying for VCC fame, the race will be a repeat of last year's wildly successful Stanley Park Road Ride. This three lap course features an uphill finish at prospect Point and will guarantee to be a fast-paced blast! Slated for Tuesday, July 21 at 7PM, meet at the North End of Burrard Bridge (across from Bicycle Sports Pacific).

Points will be awarded based on finishing position in all three races with the victor being crowned 2009 VCC champ!

Disclaimer: Despite the competitive tone featured on this blog the VCC (a typical race pictured here) is a chance to get your kicks out in a seemingly competitive race among friends. We'll hang out after and talk stories, it's recreation for the amateur hardcore.

So bring yo' friends, bring yo' bike. Email troy.barrie@gmail.com if you got any questions. If you can only make one race, make sure to come to that one race. It's still fun! Get on your bike and we'll catch ya on sunday!

A season awaits...

Spring has arrived in Sunny Vancouver! A new season of trials, glory, elite competition and comradery is upon us. Spring is in the air, the City of Vancouver is cleaning the roads of silt, tulips are raising their sun-searching beauty through the warming soil and Gregor Egan has once again put in a dominating performance at the annual UBC Storm the Wall race.

But, as the tulip bulbs lay in slumber, while epic Mt.Seymour's hungry black bears lay in scat-filled caves, as ordinary riders and Vancouverites danced with sugarplums, wrote exams and put on winter layers - were all of Vancouver's elite cyclists taking the much needed break?

Sources say no.

It is widely rumoured throughout the cycling world that, Troy Barrie and Greg Egan, team leaders of the fabled once-juggernaut cycling team of Top Choice Pizza had been on an off-season cycling program of epic proportions. Searching out sunny weather, it has been discovered that these two riders travelled - and trained - to Hawaii, in an effort to finally break the advantage held over them by their rivals in the world of Vancouver cycling.

Egan, pictured in Hawaii below, was caught off-the-record quoting "the training started with good intentions, we were focused and the determination to succeed was there. The hills were tough and the weather kept it nice. It was great to escape and be able to focus on cycling, away from the partying, media and other distractions that is unavoidable in mid-season Vancouver . There, it was all business."

Indeed.

Is an off-season training camp the magic ticket that Top Choice Pizza requires to regain top form? Early reports have indicated a strong start. Gregor Egan's thighs appear that they have reached the pinnacle of physical achievement.

Spirits are high within Top Choice Pizza camp. Even co-captain Troy Barrie has returned to former success. It is rumoured that on an unidentified trip to Mississauga, Troy Barrie was spotted on top of a podium (pictured). One can only expect that this happened in some elite level cycling race, somehow connected to these other secret plans of Barrie and Egan's as they plan their formidable return to glory, their ascent towards what the cycling world has spent the off-season in ecstatic ambition, a quest for a 2009 Vancouver Cycle Series victory.

Pain was Temporary - But for Mitchell Pride is Forever!

Davey Mitchell, the storied Team t/0 rider, overcame all odds in the final race of the VCC season and closed the book on a magnificent season.

Early in the race it seemed that all hope was lost for Mitchell, a flat tire appeared to have knocked him out of the race and the Top Choice Pizza Heavyweights were primed for easy picking sprint points with Mitchell out of contention. But Davey could not be stopped. After a spirited 2 mile run to his house to pick up a spare bike - Davey regained his spot in the field by meeting up immediately after the second sprint point. Mitchell went on to win the two remaining sprints to firmly plant himself in the coveted 2nd place podium spot behing the winnner Holtham, who had all but wrapped up the Gregor Robertson Cup.

With Mitchell and Holtham picking up top honours, the rest of the field took turns at attempts at being competitive. Michael Jordan challenged Holtham on the Camosun Hill, Nathan Barrett led out the attack on 8th Ave, a well-timed breakaway by ED on the NW Marine Drive climb saw ED move into third place overall. However, after spending most of the race behind the pack in the sprints, Barrie pulled out the big ring for the final sprint. After Mitchell and Holtham crossed the line in their breakaway, Barrie pulled out infront of the peleton in the mass sprint and picked up the final 8 second time bonus to move 1 second ahead of ED for the final peleton. A mass sprint to close a spirited season.

A late night party ensued at 4557 W 14th, the Gregor Robertson was presented to Elliot Holtham by a hologram image of Gregor himself. Critics and physicists alike are still trying to work out the theoretical workings of this stunt.

In the end, it was Mitchell, who closed the book and 'took it home' on a season that featured, wild swings in the standings, impressive defeats for Team t/0, strong showings from the revamped Blood Transfusion and the happy-go-lucky presence of Gregor Egan and the rest of the Top Choice Pizza crew. Many new riders came and left their mark, many old vets returned to ride the swings of the VCC one more time. But now, the season of training and eliteness has transitioned back to the off-season of rest, exams and random wandering in the forests and hills surrounding Vancovuer on skiis. Ed MacCarthy - a fan-favourite the whole year - summed it up best with his words, smoothly sung along to the melodic music of his guitar.:

"With my hard work done,
I feel I'm owed some joy.

Everywhere I went.
I was always searching for ya.
Bright Smiles, Dark Eyes."

Almost as convincingly as the poet his singing made him sound to be, Ed continued, "With a hard fought and unforgettable season now in the books. It's back to the finer things in life such as wooing women, hanging out in my lab and occaisionally dropping the hammer on a training run as I prepare for the World University Games. The life of an elite athlete will go on."

And so it shall. Till next time folks - remember - Pain is merely weakness leaving the body.

Ordinary Heroes Steal the Duathlon Podium

The Duathlon podium was stolen today by ordinary heroes. The VCC long been dominated by elite cyclists returned to the purity of its former days when any old athlete could take that fateful step of the couch and dominate in style. With a late course change, the podium was owned by courageous members of the short course. With Ashley Good bringing the stage home for Team XX. Brian Poole, Ross Richardsen were close in pursuit.

For the long course, ED, ran away from the field on the run. A route suited to his style, and adorned with fans writing his name on the roads in show of their support! Davey Mitchell's brazened attack on the first bike leg put a hurt that struck deep into the peleton - but with help from team mate Curtis Mullen as well as a Spiderman impersonating Nathan Barrett, ED was able to make up the distance before the run route. The transition zone was hectic, Race Marshall Greg Davis was surprised at the evident "huge rush to get off their bikes", the runners took off amidst camera clicks and cheers.

The long hard road back to campus was excellantly ridden. Race Director Eric Cessford rode in for 6th place, his best finish ever, calmly staying ahead of Barrie, Barrett, Mullen and Mitchell hot on his heels.

The race broke hearts as well. Colin Janssen and Peter Stevenson were turned away by misfortune - but the spirit was in all riders. Janssen was awarded the Best Costume Prize with Nathan Barrett's Spiderman receiving Honourable Mention due to its galant entry.

The race now turns to Greg's Gruel. With a minute separation in the field - the Gregor Robertson Cup remains open to all takers.

TCP Breaks Dormant Pattern with Beer Mile Victory!

Perennial Beer Mile favourite, Nathan Barrett, has silenced the TCP critics with the club's first stage victory. It was signifcant domination for the club, TCP Team Captain Gregor Egan was overheard post race jubulantly declaring champagne all-around as the club had their first break through of the 2008 season. All hope may have been lost for Team t/0 as Holtham felt the first pangs of being alone in the peleton - however, late season pick-up Art Mills saved the day with an outstanding ten minute performance that kept the Team Title firmly in the grasps of Team t/0. The annual VCC Beer Mile was run in conjunction with the ever-popular 9th Annual Gemini Beer Mile.

Strong performances by ED and Curtis Mullen have created the all important "6 way tie for second place" that was emphatically texted to all VCC members in the address book of Troy Barrie's cell phone late friday night. Although a more accurate count put the figure at five - and the time separation not exactly a tie - there is significant increased public interest in the race for second place. Davey Mitchell and Barrie lost significant time with performances that rivalled 'worst-ever' and Nathan Barrett's return from the bowels of the standings with an iron-stomach performance has put the pressure on all VCC combatants for the upcoming Duathlon Race.

2008 Results
Beer Mile Time / (VCC GC Time)

1. Nathan Barrett 7:10 (-0:45)
2. Tom Skinner 8:13 (-0:30)
3. Brian Poole 8:40 (-0:15)
4. Elliot Holtham 8:56 (0:00)
5. ED 8:59 (+0:03)
6. Curtis Mullen 9:25 (+0:18)
7. Art Mills 10:00 (+0:33)
8. Ashley Good 10:27 (+0:48)
9. ED II 11:15 (+0:53)
10. Greg Montie 13:10 (+1:03)
11. Seth Adams 14:58 (+1:18)
12. Earladeen McGr 15:54 (+1:33)
13. Adam Muggli 15:57 (+1:36)
14. Megan Wolfe 20:59 (+1:51)
15. Troy Barrie 22:10 (+2:06)
16. Peter 23:00 (+2:21)
17. Eric Cessford 25:00 (+2:36)
18. Davey Mitchell* DNF (+2:51)
19. Patrick Egan** DNF (+3:21)

* - First Place in the Costume Division
** - First Place in the Egan Division

4th Annual Triple Crown Video

If the glorious memories of beaming sunshine and awesome company are starting to fade, check it out here in its full glory.
Note: You must be a friend of Davey Mitchell to view it. If you're not, you can easily add him.

VCC Titans Squared off in Anticipated Triple Crown Thriller

Just as Race Director Eric Cessford predicted in his post following the ITT, the 143km, 3000m of elevation change Triple Crown battle came down to annual foes Troy Barrie and Elliot Holtham dueling it out on the monstrous slopes. Holtham, the spry, the slick, the crafty - eventually rose to the apex as victor, again. His 38:28 performance on the final mountain added another 55 seconds to his leading GC margin.

Holtham's attack strategy had been leaked, the infamous 'second-lookout attack' - a tactic that has now given Holtham 3 Triple Crown victories - had been divulged to TCP sympathiser Nathan Barrett. But, it seemed, even with this knowledge there was nothing Barrie could do to beat the mismatch. An explosive start, his trusty 'first sign of significant elevation change' attack strategy was not enough - Barrie was left with no chance. No explosive counters above 700m. The day belonged to Holtham.

"Last year's was the toughest day of my athletic career - my 20 minute PB is tell-tale of those many devastating training hours this summer. The T/0 story-tale is complete. Hoo-Ah!" -Davey Mitchell

Photo: T/0's Davey Mitchell (red) grimaces as he holds
the wheel of Blood Transfusion's Curtis Mullen (blue).

An impressive crowd of 15 embarked for the ride on a crisp 'mainly sunny' morning. True to its Legend the Triple Crown claimed many aspiring riders dreams. Stage favourite Zach Garland, left early with mech. problems, a freehub technical plague that was testement to the long hard miles of the triple crown and the sheer power of the rider. In his sophomore attempt Alex Connelly-Reed came within striking distance of Grouse, but turned around with TCP's Eric Fung as the Grade up Mountain Highway became gruesome. Newcomers Dave and Matt were victims of time's winged chariot - the Triple Crown too long a race to fit in a short day.

As Cypress was reached, one final rest was taken before the summit enslaught. It was down to the VCC Titans. The team captains, the heavy favourites that have been at the top of the class for years. The pace up Cypress was blistering to the previous easy going - Seymour's 52 minutes were pale to Cypress' 38:28. But the classic rivals at the front were not the only story. Third and fourth over the top were Mullen and Mitchell (pictured) a classic sprint finish and some crucial seconds gained by Mullen as the Team Blood Transfusion rider continues his fight for the podium. ED, rolled in a respectable 5th - although it was never enough for this fighter's personal aspirations.

A surprise finisher in 6th is worthy of his own paragraph. A T3, advil and Caffeine filled Seth Adams astonished the VCC brass with an impressive come-from-behind 6th place finish. Impressively setting a new mark for the Heaviest Man Ever to complete the Triple Crown. This finish drastically moved Adams to a top 11 placing in the overall GC standings.

Anita Holtham brought up the XX flag and firmly planted it on the top of Cypress. A surprise starter who travelled from Victoria to be a part of this epic adventure, Anita once again made it clear that elite mountain cycling is not the sole domain of men. A superb effort for Anita - and a sense of legitimacy for the VCC band of brothers, that we're not a bunch of engineering geeks with no connection to women. Some of them even do the crazy things we like.

A fan favourite the whole route, Harris, completed his inaugural VCC race on the most difficult of stages. A most exceptional beginning for his VCC cycling career. Immediately following his finish, a formal contract to join TCP was thrust into his arms. To jubulant to notice, his club future is unclear. Undoubetdly, a strong invitation will be extended to this flashy rider for future races.

Weekend Warrior, TOM, co-captain of the formidable Team Blood Transfusion also powered his way through agony to a summit finish. His team points were crucial in the battle for Team Points - Blood Transfusion leap-frogged TCP into second place. His efforts were the strong statement Blood Transfusion needed, that this is now their deserved position in the VCC. Breathing down the necks of the t/0 leaders.

With three remaining stages all requiring different strengths for success. The race for the VCC crown and the Gregor Robertson Cup remains indeterminable. Holtham may lead currently, but he'll have to defend off vicious attacks as his outclassing performance as solidified himself as the object of contempt, the measuring stick of eliteness. The toolkit of TCP remains stocked. Nathan Barrett and Brian Poole in the Beer Mile. Thomas Nippen and newly-signed Nathan Wolfe in the Duathlon. And then, in the playoffs the ever-present omnipotent force. Gregorious Egan at his own event. Greg's Gruel. Can any one man survive this ferocity?

Triple Crown anticipation runs high

Thanksgiving weekend, for most Vancouverites, is a time for rest, for relaxation, for replenishment. Families come together over their Thanksgiving dinner, being thankful for the plenty they enjoy, discussing their lives, reconnecting. This Thanksgiving, however, there is one topic that dominates all others for this happy repast: the upcoming Triple Crown, jewel of the VCC schedule. The infamous ride will begin at 8:30 from 4557 W 14th this Saturday, Oct 18th.

There is much for Vancouver to talk about, as they pick apart the first half of the season as thoroughly as they pick apart their turkey. This has been a year of surprise and drama unprecendented in the annals of the VCC. September saw the utter dominance of Team t/0 and leader Holtham, clearly the result of illegal training over the summer; the sheer grit and determination displayed by the embattled Barrie, of Top Choice Pizza, in an effort to keep his team within striking distance of the t/0 juggernaut; and the unforeseen collapse of much-heralded Blood Transfusion captain ED in practically every stage thus far. Leaving aside the titans of the VCC, the rest of the peloton and the rookies have provided even more fodder for speculation. Will t/0 super-domestique Brad Christie be content with merely a supporting role to Holtham and Mitchell in the upcoming test of manhood that is the Triple Crown? Will Blood Transfusion be blessed by a second appearance of elusive co-captain TOM, and will up-and-coming Curtis Mullen play his hand for the leadership over struggling ED? Will Greg Egan finally defeat his bugbear and finish the climb up the hallowed slopes of Cypress? Finally, will the long-threatened union of Teams Top Choice Pizza and Blood Transfusion bear fruit, perhaps leaving t/0 stranded on the endless switchbacks?

Deep strategy will come into play this upcoming weekend. Barrie and Barrett, who spent their summers training specifically for this type of riding, have staked their hopes for the eternal glory of the Gregor Robertson Cup on the mountains of the North Shore. Though ED has been heard to remark many times that this is his only chance, it is his teammate Mullen who impressed during a recent combined VCC ride to the Triple Crown finish. There is great wonder as to how t/0 will perform without the benefit of aero bars and time trial helmets.

As for the riders themselves, they are nowhere to be found this Thanksgiving weekend. While families feast, these paragons of cycling devotion grind away their final preparation hours in morning mist and midday rain, the spectre of Gregor Robertson and his great Cup dancing just on the edges of their vision. For them, team is family, the sinuous road is home, and training is enough of a meal. How will it avail them? Only this weekend's race will tell.

TTT Results

The results are hot off the press. Blood Transfusion and Top Choice were very close as were the to T/0 teams.

Team	Start	split	split time	Finish Time	Total Time
XX -Trish	00:00.0	23:50.0	23:50.0	46:29.0	46:29.0
xx - Solen	00:00.0	24:23.0	24:23.0	52:43.0	52:43.0
Blood Transfusion	03:00.0	21:50.0	18:50.0	40:58.0	37:58.0
Top Choice	05:00.0	24:12.0	19:12.0	43:02.0	38:02.0
T/0 - Ben	07:00.0	24:51.0	17:51.0	42:53.0	35:53.0
T/0 - Aero Nerds	10:00.0	27:53.0	17:53.0	45:51.0	35:51.0