We are smack in the middle of the Nature Valley Gran Prix. For those unfamiliar, this is Minnesota's premier road race event. Professionals from around the world are here competing. Teams like Toyota United, Rock Racing, Kelly Benefit, Healthnet, Jelly Belly and more are battling on the streets as we speak.
June 7-8th started things off with an event called the Fixed Gear Classic that was held at the National Sports Center's Velodrome in Blaine, MN. It was bar none the fastest, most exciting track racing that I have witnessed. One highlight was watching Roberto Chiappa break 2 long standing track records. He hit speeds of 41mph on his way to setting the record. Wild!
Our hometown racers came out and held their own quite well against the big boys of the world. Well done guys and girls-you know who you are.
I showed up in the rain to shoot the Criterium race in downtown St. Paul on Wednesday. The poor racers had to endure some really sloppy conditions. There were a lot of wrecks at the corners - sometimes as many as one every other lap. Kristin Armstrong took off a few laps into the race and rode like a freight train the remainder of the race. I could be wrong, but think she lapped all but a few riders. Really impressive ride.
The men's race was really fast. It felt like they were attacking the whole time. I am always amazed at the strength of these pro riders. Unfortunately, the mens race was cancelled before the finish due to one of the motorcycles wiping-out due to the terrible weather. The riders decided to call the race off and donate the nights' prize money to charity. True gentlemen.
For images of the events go to my gallery page.
* AllI ask it that you remember to give me photo credit for any use and no one is permitted to use these for anything other than personal use. That would be violating the riders' rights as well and mine. Thanks all.
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