07.01.07 - BMX – Hill and Ryckman crowned Canadian champions

Montreal, July 1, 2007 – The cruiser event (on which riders compete on 24-inch wheels) concluded the Tim Hortons BMX Nationals cycling competition on Sunday at Bromont, Que. Lee Ryckman of Ontario and Kevin Hill of B.C., were crowned the Canadian elite champions.

There were five entries in the men’s elite race. ‘’With less than eight entries each rider raced three times and an overall standing was based on those performances,’’ said Chantal Philie, the BMX technical director for the Quebec Cycling Federation.

Hill clinched the title with the victories in the opening two races then sideswiped a crash to complete the sweep. The battle for silver was fierce and Karsten Millman, third in Saturday’s junior elite race (20-inch wheels), prevailed for second overall and Christopher DaSilva of Ontario was third.

There were two entries in the women’s competition won by Ryckman. Junior-aged Karin Newcombe of Ontario still competed despite injuries said Philie.

Paul-Émile Doucet of Pointe-du Lac, Que., was the under-12 winner while Hunter Foster of Ontario took the 13-14 age group. Kyle Pearson of Ontario was tops in the 15-16 age group.

The difficult Bromont course didn’t deter the competitors. ‘’The course is very challenging with several jumps. However most of the riders competed in the 20-inch tire races on Friday and Saturday and were familiar with the course. As well the weather was ideal with less wind than on Saturday,’’ said Philie.

While the cruiser event is not on the Olympic menu, it will be on the program at the world championships in Victoria July 26-29. Canadians have a final opportunity to qualify for the worlds at the ICU Crabtree International July 7 in Crabtree, Que.