Big Bear Lake, CA April 4, 2013 4:00pm – The Redlands Bicycle Classic chose Big Bear this year to open their tour and kick off the season. With the help of the Big Bear Cycling Association, the time trial stage was held on Thursday beginning and ending on North Shore near the East Boat Ramp. With the rider count at around 300 it was the largest group of pro-cyclists that this event has fielded to date. This particular race is considered the first professional bike race season. It attracted teams from all over the western United States including Canada. Many riders not accustomed to riding at 7000 feet felt the effects of the thin air then add in rusty legs and the fans were treated to a great season opener.
One rider, local Big Bear pro-cyclist, Connor McCutcheon had his game face on telling event announcer Larry Longo that he intended to run the 8 mile course in under 16 minutes. Averaging 30 miles per hour at 7000 feet with a 180 degree turnaround is quick indeed. We are happy to report that Connor finished the race, besting his goal with a time of 15:47. This placed him high in a large field of 190 professional male riders.
The Redlands Bicycle Classic stage race in its 29th year. The racing continues Friday Saturday and Sunday in Redlands and the Banning area. On Sunday afternoon the overall winner will be crowned tour champion in Redlands.
