CHIN Picnic race preview

Held on the exhibition grounds in the Toronto, the CHIN Picnic race is important stop on the Ontario calendar. The past winners list includes newly crowned Canadian road champion Zach Bell. The classic criterium course is full of technical corners and high-speed sweeping sections. With Canada Day as the backdrop of the entire event, the crowds are expected to be larger than usual for the local Ontario scene. In addition, the CHIN Picnic event is the Ontario criterium championship.

In 2012, riders from New Zealand’s Pure Black Racing came to Toronto following the Tour de Beauce. The squad showed their prowess by taking the top three places. James Williamson took the win based on cumulative points. This year will likely have a more local feel with predominantly Ontario riders competing. Nonetheless, the racing is still set be intense and fast.

Last year’s top local finisher, Ed Veal of Real Deal Racing/Gears, will lead the charge in the elite men’s field. Aaron Schooler of Team H & R Block will also be in attendance. He will undoubtedly be one of the more well-rounded riders as he is also one of Canada’s strongest cyclocross racers during the winter. His aggressive racing style will surely add panache and excitement to the action.

“This race is a perennial favourite for the strong crit riders locally and abroad,” said race organizer Andrew Paradowski. “CHIN is a great place to witness zero-to-60 action as racers zip around the grounds of the CNE vying for the provincial title.”

For more information on race categories, times and prices, visit the Ontario Cycling Association’s website.