07.20.07 - 2007 Tim Hortons Mountain Bike Nationals - New downhill champions
Luke Kitzanuk and Micayla Gatto win Canadian titles

July 20, 2007 – Luke Kitzanuk of Hudson, Que., and Micayla Gatto of B.C., won the Canadian downhill titles at the Tim Hortons Mountain Bike Nationals at Mt. Washington, B.C.

Rain and cold made a difficult course event harder for the competitors. ‘’Even dry, the course is challenging and with the rain even more so,’’ said Kitzanuk, savouring his first Canadian title.

‘’My goal was to stay on my bike until I reached the bottom. I made it. I won’t need to do laundry,’’ he said. ‘’I’m very pleased, I’ve been chasing this title for four years.’’

Hans Lambert of Quebec won the junior title and was third in the elite event. ‘’I couldn’t have asked for better,’’ said Lambert, 18. ‘’I didn’t know what to expect, but I worked hard all week and gave it my all.’’

In the women’s competition, Gatto took the crown. ‘’I’ve been waiting for this moment a long time. It’s my first Canadian title and I’m excited about,’’ she said. ‘’You have keep positive through the rain and cold because there is nothing you can do about it. The competition was the only time today I didn’t fall on the course.’’

Anne Laplante of Gatineau, Que., won the junior event. ‘’I’m surprised because it was quite a battle between Miranda Miller (B.C.,) and I,’’ said the 16-year-old Laplante.

Competition continues Saturday with the cross country races.