by George Tomasich
editor’s note: This year the Ride Organizers offered an option called the Tour de Big Bear HC Category for a limited number of entrants. CV had 3 members participate in this incredible challenge that was tackled by some of the most talented riders in our area and included multiple Tour de France participant Freddy Rodriguez. At 117 miles with 12,000 ft of climb it ranks as one of the toughest one day events out there.
CV also had multiple participants in the “normal” 107 mile version of the event. Great effort by all of the CV members who completed these challenging courses! Thanks to George for his account!!
This year’s Tour de Big Bear offered a very difficult route option,
The Tour de Big Bear HC category.
The HC category is a new feature which Big Bear has recently added to really up the challenge for 200 brave cyclists who don’t believe the standard version is hard enough. At 117 miles and over 12,000 feet of climbing at altitude and multiple K.O.M.’s it offers quite the long day in the saddle.
Local respected and accomplished cyclist John Hormbeck made the following statement… “It’s events such as these which are needed as recently so many local races have been removed from the calendar that rides like these are much appreciated…”
Big congratulations to our three undaunted CV club members who participated in this new challenge for being part of an elite group of cyclists including Alison Tetrik, Phil Gaimon, Chad Hall, Jon Hornbeck, and (Multiple Tour de France Participant) Freddy Rodriguez.
Canyon Velo Tour de Big Bear “HC Category” Participants
PATRICK COPP outstanding result, finished 12 overall (1st 50+) 06:16:03
SIMON BIBEAU finished 40 overall 06:59:07 after cramping in mile 106 and getting decoupled from the chasing group. Impressive Onyx pass KOM time 32:23 and still 80 mi to go..
RICHARD KWOK another example of high endurance and commitment, not giving up until the last pedal stroke finished 66 overall 7:40:51
A second group of CV members were part of shorter but still incredibly challenging “The Climb” ride option that covered 107 miles with “Only” 9000′ and the Onyx Summit KOM!
Canyon Velo “The Climb Category” Participants
CHRIS BERGSTROM
RICHARD BUTZ
DANNY DAVISSON
WESLEY RATCLIFF
GEORGE TOMASICH ( first place Master 50+ Onyx Pass KOM)