Yesterday our Canadian men and women mountain bike racers did us proud by winning in our own backyard at the Pan Am Games.
The women’s MTB race had Emily Batty of Brooklin, Ontario win gold and her friend and rival Catharine Pendrel this time came second for a silver medal, both dominating the race. They were very strong and lead the race ahead of American rider Erin Huck who was more than five minutes back!
Later that day the men’s MTB race saw Canadian Raphael Gagne win us a gold medal in an exciting tight race with Argentinian racer Catriel Soto. We also had Canadian veteran rider, Derek Zandstra take fourth behind American Stephen Ettinger.
The races were held at Hardwood MTB Park, just north of Barrie, Ontario on the weekend. The weather was hot and humid but not too stifling. A large crowd came to cheer our riders and a few of you were there.
This race and the wins mean a big boost for the mountain bike riding community here in Ontario. Not only can we produce top riders we also will benefit from a world-class MTB track that was built at Hardwood for the Pan Am Games.
I am looking to try it this summer, umm somewhat slower. lol…but if you can ride it six times in an hour and half …call team Canada immediately.
Here are some great photos courtesy of friends Ian Yorston and Oli Moorman
