The New Belgium Crit in Fort Collins is one of the biggest races on the Colorado calendar. Large crowds, beer and food booths, a technical course, and a deep prize list has, historically, made this a favorite of many racers. This year there was another bonus- rain!
The Vitamin Cottage boys wasted no time by going to the front early and establishing nearly every break. This is a race that has come down to a field sprint often, but the boys were keen on keeping to the front and breaking things up. With some of the top pro sprinters in the country in attendance it wasn’t easy.
Jon Tarkington got himself into a move that looked like it would stick with only a handful of laps remaining in the race, after animating things earlier by being in several unsuccessful moves. Being the winner of last week’s City Park Crit he was heavily marked, and had to contend with the sprinting power of Alex Candelario (Jelly Belly) and Pete Lopinto (Siera Nevada).
Candelario was the first one out of the last, wet, corner and held his sprint all the way to the line. Jon fought hard to finish 5th, while Chuck Coyle won the field sprint from behind to finish 7th...
Tarkington leads Candelario through a nasty corner.
Michael Schilling and Chad Taylor were muddy warriors protecting the front of the race.
Joe Taddeucci shook off a crash last weekend to perform well on the slick course.
Joey Pinkerton and Chuck Coyle rolling through the finish line in the final minutes.
Jon Tarkington at the head of affairs.
Chuck Coyle finishes off the field sprint.
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