Tour successful enough for a Round 2

Times Reporter 

 

Over 1,000 attendees enjoyed Strathmore’s Sept. 6 launch of the Tour of Alberta, as over 120 pro cyclists raced from the town’s streets all the way to Drumheller.

“It was a great success. I think that it put Strathmore on the map,” said Mayor Steve Grajczyk.  “As we were speaking on the stage, it was being streamed live to 350 million viewers around the world. To me, it was a real plus.”

This was the first year for the Tour of Alberta; the Alberta government is backing the project for another two years. Grajczyk and his staff are already encouraging to have a tour stage end in Strathmore next year.

“I think I would love to see that happen,” said Tracy Simpson, recreational events and communications coordinator for the Town. “It’s a bit bigger, we get to put on an awards ceremony, and have a bigger festival. I think now that people have seen what it’s all about, the Town will really get behind it. If we’re successful, it would be just an amazing experience.”

Grajczyk followed the riders along the route in the pace car, and called it “one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done in my life, it was such a thrill.”

Driving with an Olympic cycling silver medalist, the pace car stayed one minute ahead of the racers.

“We were going down the hill of the highway going 90 km/h. They were right behind us,” he said.

The overall winner of the tour also won the Stage 3 day from Strathmore to Drumheller; Australian Rohan Dennis of Team Garmin-Sharp finished with an average speed of 43 km/h over 170 km on Sept. 6, and had an aggregate time of 17 hours, 45 minutes, and 40 seconds over the five race days.

“I came into this race in pretty good form,” said 23-year-old Dennis. “I really didn’t know how it would play out throughout the week. I guess it played out well. So, I’m a little surprised. It’s the biggest win of my pro career.”

The top Canadian winning the Maple Leaf jersey was Ryan Anderson of Optum P/B Kelly Benefit Strategies, with an aggregate time of 17 hours, 49 minutes, and 36 seconds; he finished eighth overall, while Canadian favourite Ryder Hesjedal placed 60th.

“I think it’s going to do a lot for bicyclists, bike enthusiasts, and for the young population in general,” said Grajczyk. “I learned a lot, it’s quite an exciting sport – and for a beginner’s sport, it’s pretty reasonable to get into.”

Over 100 volunteers were needed to put on Strathmore’s festival. 

“It was so exciting to see our volunteers and to see what a great job they did,” said Grajzcyk. 

“I think an event like that brings out a lot of community spirit. People gather together, and celebrate,” said Simpson. “It makes you happy to live where you live.”