Langlois surges clear to win ahead of Grasmann

In spite of the brutal heat, humidity, soaring temperatures near 40 degrees and the threat of severe thunderstorms, thousands of spectators, and those seeking a good time for the family, lined the streets of downtown West Chester for the Annual Iron Hill Twilight Criterium. They were rewarded with some of the most exciting pro racing action in the event’s eight-year history as well as one of the fastest races of the 2012 USA CRITS series.

It all came down to the final four laps as Bruno Langlois (Garneau-Quebecor-Norton Rose), two-time medalist at the Canadian National Championships, took the victory after bridging the gap from the chase group to the leader. At about 400 meters from the finish line he made his move and sprinted ahead of German rider Christian Grasmann (Rudy Project Racing) to victory in the 40-lap criterium in a time of 1:07:51.

The 30-lap Pro/Am Women’s Criterium was equally thrilling as 18-year-old New Zealander Sophie Williamson (NZ National Team) upset many of the most elite professional female riders in the cycling world. After numerous attacks, Williamson and Kate Veronneau (Pure Energy) broke away from the pack and worked together to come within 22 seconds of lapping the field. In a two-up sprint at the finish line, the teenager edged out her breakaway companion both finishing in 45:06.

Mark Yoder, President of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, was pleased by the turnout given the oppressive heat and fears of storms (which proved unfounded).

"More and more visitors are discovering what a wonderful community we have in West Chester," he said. "Everyone had a great time - spectators and riders alike. The riders love the challenging course and the enthusiastic crowds. The families love all the kid-friendly activities. And the spectators love the exciting racing - especially this year!"

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