February 8/18 17:54 pm - New West Grand Prix Returns to BC Superweek for 2018

Posted by Editor on 02/8/18
 

The New West Grand Prix is returning to the historic streets of downtown New Westminster on July 10, 2018. The event is part of BC Superweek, one of the most prestigious cycling races in North America that attracts top professional men and women riders from around the world.

"The City of New Westminster is pleased to announce that it will be committing to the New West Grand Prix for the remaining three years of the BC Superweek series term," said Mayor Jonathan X. Coté. "Last year's race was a phenomenal experience for our community. We received such positive feedback from the community who were amazed by the caliber of the event and racers, and we are excited to bring back another high-quality, family-friendly event."

The inaugural 2017 New West Grand Prix featured 185 male and 72 female cyclists racing a 935-metre circuit that included a tough climb up Eighth and Carnarvon streets and a high-speed, perilous descent down Sixth Street to Columbia. An estimated 4,000 spectators were treated to some of the most challenging racing of the BC Superweek series.

The race was supported by over 130 community volunteers and 16 sponsors. More than 170 young riders also participated in a kids' race that preceded the pros.

"New Westminster put on a first class inaugural race that was well received by the athletes and earned the status as the hardest event in the BC Superweek series," said BC Superweek Race Director, Mark Ernsting. "Over the next few years, the event will continue to grow and soon become an annual event that families and racers will look forward to attending every July."

This year's criterium race will follow a similar format, with a mass start launching the riders for 45-55 laps around downtown New Westminster. They'll pass by any given point every minute, making the New West Grand Prix a thrilling spectator experience. In addition to cheering on the racers, the event will also feature activities for the whole family including the New West Kids Prix, a free bike race open to young riders between the ages of 3 and 12 years which will take place before the pros take to the course.

The New West Grand Prix depends on the community to make this world class cycling event come to life. There are many opportunities for individuals and businesses to get involved, such as volunteering, providing host housing to riders, sponsorship, and cheering on the racers on July 10th.

For more information on the New West Grand Prix and how to get involved, including volunteer registration and sponsorship details, please visit www.newwestgrandprix.com.

To view the 2018 New West Grand Prix promotional video, please click Here.