June 15/23 9:58 am - Gastown Grand Prix Prepares to Celebrate 50 Years

Posted by Editoress on 06/15/23
 

The Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious criterium cycling races in North America, is less than a month away and as part of its 50th anniversary, will unveil a new course for its upcoming edition on July 12, 2023.

The Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix will showcase a dynamic and redesigned racecourse that embraces the rich history of Gastown while providing a thrilling experience for participants and fans alike.

"We are delighted to present the new course for the Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix," says Race Director, Mark Ernsting. "The course offers a fresh and exhilarating experience for riders, challenging them with its unique features and cobblestone streets. We believe this layout will captivate spectators and showcase the best of Gastown's historic atmosphere."

The redesigned racecourse spans 1.3 kilometres, incorporating both technical sections and high-speed straightaways. Cyclists will navigate several corners and undulating terrain, requiring precision and agility to maintain their positions. The course strategically showcases the stunning architecture and historic charm of Gastown, with spectators lining the streets to cheer on the riders. The buzz will be remarkable as cyclists race over the same cobblestones as cycling greats like Ron Hayman, Alex Stieda, Brian Walton, Alison Sydor, Gina Grain, and Clara Hughes - all of whom have represented Canada at the Olympic Games.

The start-finish line remains at the corner of Cambie Street and Water Street, next to the iconic Gastown steam clock. From there, riders head west on Water Street to Richards Street where a hairpin turn takes them onto West Cordova east to Columbia. Riders will then make a left on Columbia Street and ride one block north to Powell Street where they race onto Water Street back towards the start-finish line and main stage.

Celebrating its 50th year in 2023, the Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix is a must-attend event for cycling enthusiasts, drawing world-class athletes and fans from around the globe. Global Relay, a Gastown-based technology firm which was founded in 1999, made a multi-year commitment to resurrect the race in 2012 as an opportunity to make a lasting contribution to Gastown residents and businesses, as well as the cycling community in Canada. Since then, Global Relay has invested over $2 million in the race and will continue ownership of the event for the foreseeable future.

"As title sponsor, our commitment to the Gastown Grand Prix goes beyond just lending our name to this race," says Warren Roy, Global Relay CEO and founder. "Global Relay has a deep connection to both the Gastown community and also professional cycling. We are proud to keep this premier race alive in the home of our global headquarters, as well as support rising young cyclists in Canada via our Global Relay Bridge the Gap Fund."

Registration for the Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix is now open, and professional cyclists are invited to visit gastowngrandprix.com to secure their spot in this highly anticipated race.