07.05.08 - Wrubleski wins women’s road race at Tim Hortons Road Nationals cycling competition

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ST-GEORGES-DE-BEAUCE, Que.- Beijing-bound Alex Wrubleski of Regina reclaimed the Canadian crown in women’s road racing with a victory in Saturday’s 114 kilometre event at the Tim Hortons Road Nationals.

Wrubleski, the 2006 national champion, won a five-rider sprint to the finish in three hours and 11 minutes and 39 seconds. The riders did four laps of a 28.5 kilometre course. Her Olympic teammate Leigh Hobson of Cambrigde, Ont., was second and Felicia Gomez of Fredericton was third.

‘’I’m really pleased with the victory but it’s hard to use this as a measuring stick in my preparation for the Olympics because the course will be much more different in Beijing,’’ said Wrubleski, who posted two fourth place finishes on the World Cup earlier this year. ‘’The big thing I’ll take from this race is how confident I felt with my sprinting.’’

In the under-23 standings, Julie Beveridge of Calgary completed a golden sweep clocking first in the age group and seventh overall in 3:11:33. Beveridge also won the time trial on Friday. Joelle Numainville of Laval, Que., was second and Stephanie Roorda of B.C., in third.

Competition ends Sunday with the men’s road race.