Barry’s Roubaix, a B.C. Spring Classic

West coast cyclists looking ahead to a long season of riding might want to consider an early season goal, Barry’s Roubaix, in Pitt Meadows, B.C. The race, scheduled to coincide with the legendary Paris-Roubaix on April 13, is more than a clever phonetics play.

Racers come out each year to take on a route that includes rough riding on gravel paths meant to mimic the rough cobblestones of the European classic. Roughly half of the 10 km lap will be composed of a rough gravel surface.

The race is organized by Local Ride, a bike shop in Maple Ridge, B.C. Organizer and namesake Barry Lyster is excited for the 2014 season.

“Our goal is to offer high quality events that feature the sport in our community and highlight the world-class cycling opportunities we enjoy here in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows,” said Lyster.

Barry’s Roubaix is one of three events put on by the shop in April. Just one day ahead of the Roubaix, riders can take on the Pitt Polder time trial, in Pitt Meadows. Two weeks after the back-to-back time trial and road race, competitors can take on the Race the Ridge, a stage race made up of three tough stages, and now part of Cycling BC’s new BC Premier Road Series.

Early bird discounts are in effect until the end of February, and entries can be made online.