SIMPSON BAY—Friendly neighbourhood bike shop Tri Sport has unveiled its team ahead of the November 11 around the island relay race, incidentally just sixteen days away for those still thinking about assembling a team.
“Tri Sport has had a team for 15 years in this event and we always set our sights on a top ten finish,” says Susy Maidwell who is also part of the relay organising committee.” As we got older we have gone from our best place of third down to eighth place. But we still aim for top ten.”
Of course it’s out of the question for Tri Sport to use a pick-up truck or car to ferry runners to the start of their legs, instead the team uses bikes to get in position on time.
“Our main competition is the Pompiers Team from the French side, the Cross Fit team over the last couple of years and the Marines,” added Susy.
This year the Tri Sport has more of the shop staff included in the team making it a more authentic team. Only Frits Bus and Sandra Garnier are not Tri Sport employees. In previous years runners had to be recruited from outside.
“Mark (Maidwell) always does the hardest leg because he’s the lightest, and Keverne the mechanic is also doing a hill leg,” Susy revealed. “Dean Hodge is doing the longest leg because he’s good at flat long distance.”
This year is the 28th edition of the race. Categories include Junior Juniors (under 14), Juniors (15 to 19), and adult teams. First three teams in each category get prizes and there’s also a prize for the Best Dressed Team. Each team has to have 10 runners.
Start and finish is at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex. The start is at 7:00am sharp. Runners need to be in position at the change over points on time. Registration fees are $200 for corporate teams and $100 for schools and include a T-shirt and breakfast. Registration is at Tri Sport Simpson Bay or Sam’s Sports on Front Street. Registration deadline is November 9.
