The Halifax Criterium returned for 2009 with absolutely perfect weather for a change! Not only was the sun shining, but the road surface was in fantastic condition thanks to a major effort by the city to do some paving. We had a huge turnout of racers making for some exciting racing action all day. The afternoon kids races were very well attended and everyone involved had a blast! Especially little Charlotte Wood who crossed the line at the back of the younger pack but amidst a large crowd of spectators all cheering for her. She even made the cover of the Halifax Metro News! Thanks to all the racers!
Our single speed/fixie race in the afternoon had over 20 riders registered and despite all the fixies skipping pedals on the turns, they had a great time and put on a good show!
We had one bad crash in the morning mens race that saw two riders from New Brunswick go down. One of the riders got back up and after some patching up, raced again later in the day! Way to go Charles! The other rider was taken to the hospital by ambulance and despite having some broken bones and a concussion, we are happy to say he is well on the road to recovery. It is always an unfortunate thing to have a crash in a road race. Our hearts and thoughts are with him. All the best Don.
Many thanks to Gerard Walsh, BPCC club member and race organizer fo the event. He worked tirelessly to ensure that this was a success, and he did a bang up job! Also to Cynthia Fry, who not only handled the thankless task of registration, but rallied all of the volunteers for the many jobs that required doing throughout the day. Which brings me to the volunteers. The BPCC would like to thank it's many volunteers who gave up their Sunday to work as commissaires, course marshalls, results runners, setup and takedown, and everything else that had to happen to make sure this race was a success. You are the heart of these events and they wouldn't happen without you. Hats, or helmets off!
The results of the event are posted HERE. Until next year, keep the rubber side down!
