March 8/12 12:05 pm - Monique Sullivan takes second Pan-American title

Posted by Editoress on 03/8/12
 

Canada ended the track portion of the 2012 UCI Pan-American Championships with yet another gold medal, as Monique Sullivan of Calgary, won her second Gold medal, this time in the women’s Keirin.

In a day filled with rain delays, Sullivan made her way to the decisive race, passing through the repechage rounds. In the gold medal race, she edged Daniela Gaxiola of Mexico and Jennifer Valente of the United States of America. Allison Beveridge, also of Calgary, placed ninth,

“This was a great test of mental focus, with several rain delays and lots of unknowns. I have put a lot of effort into the mental side of racing and it paid off today! I had a simple race plan, I stayed focused, and I executed a good ride. Venezuela and I will have our final face off for the Olympic spot at the World Championships next month. Can't wait!” said Sullivan.

The women’s Keirin title is the second earned by Sullivan at this important event for the Olympic qualification process.  Sullivan also took the Sprint title.

Canada’s Track Cycling Team earned a total of five medals at this event, with Monique Sullivan winning two gold medals in the women’s Sprint and Keirin, the women’s Team Pursuit squad of Laura Brown, Stephanie Roorda and Allison Beveridge taking the Pan-American title, Travis Smith winning the bronze medal in the men’s Keirin. Finally, the men’s Team Sprint squad of Travis Smith, Joseph Veloce and Hugo Barrette took the silver medal.
 
The competition also marked the first cycling race for Heather Moyse, who finished fourth in the 500m TT and fifth in the women’s sprint.
 
The 2012 Pan-American Championships road events will begin tomorrow with the time trial race, and Canada will have two riders on the start list: Rhae Shaw and Denise Ramsden.

Courtesy CCA

Results