Redlands Bicycle Classic

28-03-2010 06:58:28

Nonstop action on a grueling 17-mile circuit through the streets of Beaumont kicked off the Stage One of the 26th Annual Redlands Bicycle Classic. A calm breeze replaced previous years' strong gales, giving the professional cyclists a bit of a break and the chance to put their team strategies into full effect.

Jelly Belly presented by Kenda, showed another strong effort as Canadian Will Routley monitored the lead group and pounced on opportunity when it was presented just a few miles from the finish line. Routley joined Luis Amaran of Jamis-Colavita and Ben Jacques-Mayne from Bissel and took the sprint just 10 seconds ahead of a fast-charging pack. "This is a great start to the season," said Routley. "The team was well positioned at the front and kept each other safe for the finish."

Today's race pushed the overall General Classification to a tight battle with a mere six seconds separating the top six men. General Classification first place Ben Day of Fly V Australia overcame two bike changes during the race to hold onto his position. "It really becomes a poker game at the last climb; it's not an easy stage. We're happy to hold onto the yellow jersey. Tomorrow's crit is one of the harder races. We are approaching the rest of the stages with the utmost respect. We need to be on our toes and attentive." Ben Jacques-Mayne and Will Routely are second and third for General Classification, respectively, separated by a miniscule one second.

www.canadiancyclist.com