As the only nationally sanctioned track cycling race in Western Canada, the 3rd Annual Western Track Challenge took place at the Burnaby Velodrome this past weekend, Jan 18-20, and gave youth, elite, and masters riders an opportunity to race at a high level against riders from the Pacific Northwest.
The 2019 Western Track Challenge welcomed over 100 riders from British Columbia, Alberta, Washington State, Oregon, and one rider came out all the way from Chicago, Illinois. A similar event in the east, The Eastern Track Challenge, is scheduled for February 9, 2019 in Milton, Ontario. With a focus on development, these events give U17 and Junior riders a chance to hone their skills and fitness in time for the Canadian National Track Championships in April.
New to this year’s Western Track Challenge was ability-based racing for youth, which put U15 and younger riders up against riders of the same skill level, allowing for boys and girls to race together but with separate results. This new format allowed riders to keep up with their peers in the pack and get the best overall racing experience. This was a welcomed addition to the event and was well-received by riders, coaches, and parents.
Not to be forgotten, the Elite and Masters categories were also part of the action and saw the likes of Paralympic Athlete and Road & Track World Champion, Tristen Chernove, racing on Burnaby Velodrome track.
A big thank you to the good folks at the Burnaby Velodrome Club, Cycling Canada, and new 2019 Cycling BC sponsor, Cobotix Manufacturing Inc., for supporting the event.
A special thanks to all the riders, coaches, parents, volunteers, staff, and commissaires who all come together to make these events possible and a great experience for everyone.
2019 Western Track Challenge Results
2019 Western Track Challenge Photos by Scott Robarts
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