February 4/13 19:48 pm - Paris2Ancaster Boasts Stellar List of Starters

Posted by Editoress on 02/4/13
 

Today organizers of the Paris to Ancaster Bicycle Race (P2A) which takes place on Sunday, April 14th, announced that a number of Olympians are going to participate in this year's race.  This will be the 20th anniversary of Canada’s biggest bike race. To mark the occasion the race will be more challenging. The longer race, usually 60 kilometres, will be bumped up to 70 kilometres this year and the shorter race, usually 35 kilometres, will be bumped up to 40 kilometres.

The race is open to all levels of riders, and will include Olympians such as London 2012 bronze medalist Tara Whitten, three- time Olympian Steve Bauer, four-time Olympian Eon D’Ornellas, two-time Olympians Gord Singleton, Sue Palmer-Komar and Brian Chewter, as well as Olympians Leigh Hobson and Chrissy Redden, the latter whom won the very first P2A race. Along with these Olympians, Organizers are excited to announce that five-time US National Cyclocross Champion Jonathan Page will be participating in this year's race.

These Olympians and professionals are involved this year as part of the Olympian Experience VIP Package. The Olympian Experience VIP package is available to all cyclists and provides the opportunity to be part of the first wave of the 70 kilometre race, which is usually only for professional cyclists. The package also includes the chance to have a meet and greet with the Olympians and professional riders before and after the race, reserved parking, valet breakdown service, P2A duffle bag, and pre and post-race soigneur services. Additionally those who purchase the Olympian Experience VIP Package will be able to join these world class athletes after the race for lunch and, of course, a beer! There is a limited number of spots available in the Olympian Experience VIP Package, so early registration is important to secure a position.

“Since this is the 20th anniversary of the race we wanted to make it more memorable, so we’ve made it a bit more challenging and are offering a great opportunity with the Olympian Experience VIP Package,” says Tim Farrar, P2A co-chair. “We are thrilled to have such an exceptional group of accomplished athletes joining us to make the Olympian Experience VIP Package package special. We hope cyclists jump on this once in a lifetime opportunity to ride with such a large number of pros.”

A portion of the money received from the Olympian Experience VIP Package along with registrations and donations will go towards funding the 2015 Pan Am Velodrome to be built in Milton, Ontario. To register for the race or to make a donation, please visit www.parisancaster.com .