Canadian Cyclo-cross Championship returned to Victoria, BC the past weekend with a number of Ontario athletes looking to defend their national titles.
In the Elite Men and Women’s races, Ava Holmgren and Tyler Clark were looking to repeat their 2022 gold medal performances. In the Women’s race, Ava took the early lead and never looked back to capture her second elite national title with Ontario athlete Katelyn Walcroft finishing with the bronze medal. In the Men’s race Tyler led out the first lap in a tight battle with several other riders including fellow Ontario athletes Luke Valenti and Quinton Disera. Luke appeared to have the race in hand before an issue with his chain allowed BC rider Evan Russell pass him and take home gold. Luke was able to fix the issue in time to capture silver and Tyler Clark taking bronze to round out the podium.
The U23 races saw both 2022 Junior Champions Isabella Holmgren and Ian Ackert making their first appearance in the category. Both athletes were not intimidated with the move up to U23 successfully capturing national titles to remain Canadian national champions. In the Men’s race, Owen Clark battled his was way to a bronze medal ahead of 4th place finisher Alexander Woodford.
In the Junior races, Ontario had a new Canadian Champion emerge after Jayden McMullen battled from 4th place on the last lap to win the gold by less than 4s over the second place finisher. In the women’s event, Aislin Hallahan was the top Ontario rider finishing in 7th place.
Congratulations to all Ontario athletes, coaches, and support staff (including parents) for a successful national championships.
Photo Credits: Canadian Cyclist & Nick Iwanyshyn