The 27-year-old will participate in a variety of events over the five-day competition including sprint races, stunt contests as well as the main championship. Held on closed roads, the race is designed to simulate actual bike courier life. Riders must deliver packages to various offices along the circuit as fast as possible.
Phillips, born in Tauranga, has lived and worked in Auckland as a bicycle courier since 2003 and enjoys the physical challenge of the job.
Tokyo will be his fourth CMWC and he is looking forward to racing against the 2000 other competitors who travel from around the world to take part. In 2008, Phillips travelled to Toronto with fellow Kiwi Jenna Macgill who won the women’s event.
“The races are really tough,” says Phillips, “but the championships are also about a coming together of bicycle couriers from dozens of different countries and sharing a common passion.”
“I’ve had good results in previous championships and messenger races, a few top ten placings here and there but this time I am aiming for the podium in the main championship.”
It’s not an easy road to the CMWC. Phillips must pay all costs himself and rely on backing from local businesses.
“Customs Solutions, Advanced Customs, Torchon, Barabra and Bike Central are helping me with costs while Tineli Cycle Wear are providing my race clothing."
Read an Interview with Ezra by the NZHerald.
No comments:
Post a Comment