New Haven Grand Prix

New Haven’s first ever Grand Prix Criterium took place down town last night, and I am still feeling the excitement the morning after.  What a fun night.  People were lining Chapel Street, mingling, cheering, and eating at the tables the restaurants had put out next to the course.  Even though the announcers joked about how quiet New Haven was as a crowd, “they must be studying,” there were raucous occasions, especially when the pros had less than five laps to go.  I have been to a few races, and really appreciate how hard Richard Fries, the race MC, workss, and last night he was in rare form, like he new he had to convince New Haven to believe.  He was trotting up and down Chapel St., dancing, conducting interviews, getting people fired up over primes, making fun of spectators, giving race updates, and explaining some race tactics that viewers could look for.  He was wonderful and I am certain he left his mark on the New Haven faithful.

There were a few crashes, a few mechanicals, and a few breakaways during the first 40 laps, but when the end was near the pack moved as a single unit.  I was sure Curtis White of team Optum, who led about 95% of the race and looked to be in total control would never be caught, but he was outdone by a sprint finish.  The crowd, and the announcers went wild.

When the awards and celebration began pestering out, Kristin and I rode home pretending to race for lap primes all the way to our door.  New Haven and everyone who made it happen should be proud of what they achieved last night.  Thanks to all.

My camera phone disappointed: