What’s happening?
The second annual New West Grand Prix returns to New Westminster on Tuesday, July 10. Last year’s inaugural event featured 185 male and 72 female cyclists racing a 935-metre circuit in downtown New Westminster. More than 4,000 spectators watched cyclists climb the Eighth Street hill from Columbia to Carnarvon streets and descend down a steep hill on Sixth Street before turning onto Columbia Street.
What can we expect at this year’s event?
This year’s criterium race will follow a similar format, with a mass start launching the riders for 45 to 55 laps around downtown New Westminster.
What’s it like for spectators?
A press release from the city states that cyclists will pass any given point along the route every minute – making it a thrilling experiencing for spectators.
“Last year’s race was a phenomenal experience for our community,” said Mayor Jonathan Cote. “We received such positive feedback from the community, who were amazed by the calibre of the event and racers, and we are excited to bring back another high-quality, family-friendly event.”
How can kids get involved?
In addition to watching the action, kids are invited to take part in the New West Kids Prix, a free bike race that’s open to riders three to 12 years of age. It takes place before the pro riders take to the course.
Can I get involved?
Everyone is welcome to cheer on the racers in the New West Grand Prix, but there are also opportunities for individuals and businesses to get involved by volunteering, providing host housing to riders and sponsoring the event. For info on how to get involved, including volunteer registration and sponsorship details, visit www.newwestgrandprix.com
Tell me more about the race:
The New West Grand Prix is part of B.C. Superweek, which is Canada’s biggest professional road cycling series. The series features more than $140,000 in prize money at nine races over 10 days. New West is the second race in the series, which also includes stops in Delta, Gastown, Burnaby and White Rock.
“New Westminster put on a first-class inaugural race that was well received by the athletes and earned the status as the hardest event in the B.C. Superweek series,” said B.C. Superweek race director Mark Ernsting. “Over the next few years, the event will continue to grow and soon become an annual event that families and racers will look forward to attending every July.”
