Theresa McManus, New West Record, June 10, 2019

The New West Grand Prix is returning to the streets of New Westminster this summer.

The New West Grand Prix is part of BC Superweek, a race series taking place July 5 to 14 in six cities across Metro Vancouver. The local event, featuring more than 200 international riders, hits the streets of downtown New Westminster on Tuesday, July 9.

“The New West Grand Prix has proven itself to be one of New Westminster’s signature events. The calibre of this event is outstanding, and it is amazing to witness the abilities of elite athletes moving by their own power at up to 70 kilometres an hour,” said Mayor Jonathan Cote in a press release. “It has all the elements that make it a fun and exciting experience: speed, athleticism, and strategy coupled with activities for the whole family in a great festival atmosphere. And it’s all free! I encourage everyone to come and cheer on the racers on July 9.”

The New West Grand Prix is a criterium-style race featuring a grueling 935-metre circuit with tight corners and long straightaways. It includes a tough climb up Eighth and Carnarvon streets and a high-speed descent down Sixth Street to Columbia Street. Riders will complete 45 to 50 laps before sprinting to the finish line.

Now in its third year, the New West Grand Prix’s course has earned the reputation of being the hardest event in the BC Superweek series.

Before the pros take to the streets, young riders aged 12 and under can participate in the New West Kids Prix, where they’ll get a chance to race a special course.

According to a press release from the city, the success of the New West Grand Prix is due largely in part to a team of more than 130 community volunteers and the generous contributions of sponsors. Together, their support makes New Westminster a cycling destination for participants and spectators alike.

“The team at Landcor strongly believes in being a part of the community in which we operate and we are proud to be a Champion sponsor of the New West Grand Prix,” Jeff Tisdale, chief executive officer at Landcor Data Corporation, said in a press release. “This event is more than just a race to us; we are a part of the excitement that local community members and businesses bring, attracting people from all over. We welcome all competitors and visitors to our beautiful and historic city.”

The 2019 New West Grand Prix is supported by the following sponsors: Landcor Data Corporation; Offworld Industries; Lexus Canada; The Original Bike Shop; Piva Modern Italian Restaurant; Skyllen Pacific; Global BC; New Westminster Record; 102.7 THE PEAK; el Santo; Starlight Casino; Royal Printers; Steel & Oak Brewing Co.; Champion System; Novus; and Royal City Wrestling.

Florenz Knauer of Germany has won back-to-back titles in the men’s race. In the women’s race, Coquitlam’s Sara Bergen took the crown in 2018 and Canadian Olympic bronze medallist Kirstie Lay topped the podium in the race’s inaugural year.

For more information on the New West Grand Prix and how to get involved, including volunteering and providing host housing to riders, sponsorship opportunities and the New West Kids Prix, go to www.newwestgrandprix.com.