2008 Hinckley Time Trial Wrapup
Hinckley, Maine

The results are in...

The 2008 Skowhegan Savings Bank / Sappi Time Trial in Hinckley (#6 in the Maine Time Trial Series) was a record breaking success. Not only did the Sunday, July 6th event bring out a record 69 racers (from all parts of Maine and few other states) -- everyone finished the race. It was also the first time we've ever had three contestants in the 75 & Wiser men's category - George Walsh & Dave Hatch (85 & 86 years old respectively), had first-timer Vince Viggiano of Hartland, a young 78 year old join the legends of the time trial circuit.

A more beautiful day topping off a perfect weekend would be hard to imagine. We had full sun, upper 70's to about 80 degrees and no wind to speak of. The 12-mile course enjoys remarkably flat stretches along the Kennebec River with only a few small hills giving a total of 150 feet of climbing out and back.

John Meerse of Portland, a new comer to this race, scored a decisive victory with a wicked fast winning time of 26 minutes 27 seconds (an average speed of over 27mph and a new course record by over 30 seconds!).

Erin Brennan, last year's series winner, was the fastest female finishing in just 30 minutes and 5 seconds (averaging 24mph!).

Of the 69 who raced, 8 were riding their first time trial ever. Paul Magoon from Cornville finished with a remarkable time of 29 minutes and 40 seconds! Chris Worden of Brewer, was not among the first timers (this was his second time trial), but having just turned 13 years old, he was our youngest racer.

Thanks to our title sponsors Skowhegan Savings Bank and Sappi Fine Paper for again underwriting this fun, all-inclusive, yet wonderfully competitive event. This event would not be possible without the excellent volunteer support from Matt Cote, Tina Quinn, Jim Mathieu, and Greg Dore, who have been long-time volunteers for this event. Thanks also go out to Michael Haenn, Jim Hendrick, Sharon Rau and a few others who lent a hand. And of course, thank you to ALL the racers for another wonderful race!

Finally, after running this event for 11 years, I bid you all a fond farewell. As I prepare to move to Washington D.C. with my new job heading up the national coalition of bike coalitions, I'm grateful to all of you who have raced and volunteered and made this fun little race a real highlight of the year. I'm also most inspired and honored by my friends Dave Hatch and George Walsh, who have raced nearly each of the time trials in Hinckley, and who now in their mid 80's serve as a true inspiration for all. Matt Cote and Tina Quinn (BCM Board member) have generously agreed to co-coordinate the Hinckley Time Trial next year and it is my sincere hope that each of you will be as kind, generous, and supportive with them as you have been with me. Again, thank you for making the Hinckley Time Trial the fun competitive event it is!

- Jeffrey Miller

Any questions, please contact Jeff by leaving a message at the BCM at 623-4511.