February 3:  San Diego - Boulevard Road Race

Saturday February 3rd found a squad from Toyota-United Pro Cycling riding the Boulevard Road Race in Boulevard, California; the 89.6 mile road course (completed in 4 laps) offered rolling hills and a long climb to the finish. The weather wasn?t particularly kind to the cyclists either, the colder than normal temperatures and stiff winds added to the challenge as did strong competition from Health Net Pro Cycling, Team Slipstream and Jelly Belly Pro Cycling.  

Team Director Kirk Willett said, ?I?m happy with their performance here today, the team rode aggressively and really tested their legs. Heath Blackgrove finished 2nd, while Chepe Garcia and Ivan Stevic rode about 40 miles in that initial breakaway. Overall we had three riders in the top 15.?

The Boulevard Road Race was located about an hour east of downtown San Diego and offered plenty of rural scenery.	Team soigneur Joachim Schoonacker helps rider Sean Sullivan get ready for the race.
Photo by: Kathleen Poulos	Photo by: Kathleen Poulos
Heath Blackgrove takes a moment before the race to get his race number situated.	Team Director Harm Jansen talks to the riders before the race.
Photo © Kathleen Poulos	Photo © Kathleen Poulos
Henk Vogels keeps up a strong pace during the 89.6 mile race.	Chepe Garcia takes a pull at the front of the breakaway.
Photo © Kathleen Poulos	Photo © Kathleen Poulos

Ivan Stevic made a strong ride in the day?s main breakaway.	Toyota United riders fly by the Optimist Ranch while out on course.
Photo © Kathleen Poulos ***	Photo © Kathleen Poulos
Justin English crosses the finish line after a long day in the saddle.	Heath Blackgrove finishes 2nd in the Boulevard Road Race.
Photo © Kathleen Poulos	Photo © Kathleen Poulos