B.C.’s spring classic road race, Jeremy’s Roubaix, returns to Pitt Meadows on April 12, and after 12 years of history racing the rural roadways and gravel dyke network along the banks of the Fraser River, the 2015 edition will see some changes to the event.
Jeremy’s Roubaix will now be the first race in the Cycling BC Premier Race series. That series consists of seven races utilizing the provinces top road events.
Other races in the series include Race the Ridge, May 30, 31, Cameron Law Cycling Classic, June 6, 7 and finishes with BC Superweek – the UBC Gran Prix, July 14 and Tour de White Rock’s Criterium, July 17.
“We are very excited to have such a strong collection of races to highlight the amazing road events we have here in B.C.” said local race organizer Barry Lyster. “Like last year, I anticipate a very competitive series with the overall winner being decided when the riders hit the streets of White Rock.
Jeremy’s Roubaix will also be the first race for Cycling BC’s Youth Series. B.C. has seen a sharp increase in youth cycling, in particular thanks to the strong commitment from Cycling B.C. youth initiatives such as iRide, along with the growth of BC’s youth cycling clubs. There will be categories for boys and girls from 13-19.
Another significant change is the race’s name to Jeremy’s Roubaix. Previous editions of this race have been called Harris Roubaix and most recently Barry’s Roubaix.
“Calling this challenging, tough race Jeremy’s Roubaix was an obvious choice,” said Lyster,
“I decided to name this race after Canadian cycling legend, Jeremy Storie who sadly and suddenly died two years ago.
“Jeremy was a coach, event organizer, race announcer, racer, story teller and strong advocate for women’s and youth cycling.”
The weekend of racing will start on April 11 with the Airport Time Trial. On this 12km time trial course riders race against the clock.
On April 12, Jeremy’s Roubaix begins at 8:30 a.m. and winds up around 2 p.m..
Registration is open, with early price specials available until March 20.
For more information, to register, or to volunteer go to www.localride.ca.