Under dark and wet skies, the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic began with a prologue time trial last night. The event was held at Portland International Raceway just north of downtown Kenton in North Portland.
Some of America’s strongest bike racers battled against the clock to set the overall standings for the five stage race that continues with Stage 1 at Mt. Tabor Park tonight. Riders hunched over their bikes and focused all their physical and mental energy on their pedals. To cheat the wind, they wore teardrop helmets and rode high-tech, aerodynamic bikes made especially for time trials. They covered the four mile course in just over 7 minutes, with the winner, Paul Mach (Bissell), clocking a 07:11.
Tonight’s criterium at Mt. Tabor Park should prove very interesting — for racers and spectators — if it continues to rain. The action starts at 6:30. Come early to take in the vendors, food, and other fun at the expo area.
Follow the Mt. Hood Cycling Classic on the event website or get live updates via Twitter.
More photos from last night’s action in the slideshow below: