Many riders were dismayed when the city of Nanaimo Engineering Department nixed the use of the popular Boxwood criterium circuit due to traffic lights at each end of Boxwood Road that would result in "increased traffic flow" in the vicinity of the circuit. After doing a traffic survey on the circuit on week day evenings, organiser Peter McCaffery approached the city again about use of the course this year. He was asked to submit a permit application which would be discussed and a decision made based on the new information. keep your fingers crossed!

As cyclists, most of our readers will doubtless be affected in a number of ways as the average temperature creeps up over the next few years. We'll sweat more on rides and battle against or be blown along by winds of increasing velocity. We are well aware that the climate is changing but the causes are being argued by both scientists and various groups with vested interests. For a thought provoking and informative video on global warming, go here.

Readers will note that the classified page is not on the MIVA web site now. Those who wish to advertise items for sale or wanted are directed to use Kijiji and used Nanaimo. Photos and requested price will both get more hits. Your editor has sold quite a bit of cycling and non-cycling stuff using these and Ebay (very effective). If readers check Used Nanaimo, there are three sets of Profil Tri bars (different models) and a SRAM Red chainset currently for sale.  

There is a great programme out of Burnaby velodrome to introduce aboriginal riders  to competitive cycling. However, many of these new riders are really poor and can't afford such luxuries as jerseys, shorts, shoes etc. If you have old cycling clothing  you no longer need, just drop off at Oak Bay Cycles in Nanaimo. Deadline is April 15th. The club may also be donating some of last year's unsold clothing.  Look in those draws and closets and see what you can find.

Cold day today. Sunny, but the threat of snow in the approaching clouds. Only three showed and one  (who shall remain nameless Cheryl) had forgotten front Q/R,so two starters. Good to see Sean Lunney out. It,s the first time trial I remember him riding in over six years. Dave Steen, who is an avid supporter of the MIVA events came over from Thetis Island. Dave is quite fit for the time of year and gave Sean, who is less than half his age, a good run for his money. Times and positions in our "results" section.