The McKenzie Pass road race has been part of Cascade Classic since the venerable stage race's inception during the 1980's. The punishing roads and rugged terrain have earned McKenzie the distinction of "Queen Stage".
The first half of the dichotomous course is on the rainy western slope of Mt Washington while the second half takes place in the arid high desert of the eastern aspect, finishing on top of the 3 Creeks climb.
For the second consecutive year a nasty high speed crash in the early miles of the day caused carnage in the peloton, this year claiming the Yellow Jersey as an unfortunate victim. This year's crash closely followed a 3 rider escape, and by the time order was restored the small breakaway had 3 minutes lead. Team Exergy's Sam Johnson proved the strongman of the trio, crossing Mt Washington first and earning a polka dot jersey for his day of work.
Back in the peloton, Paco Mancebo and his CompetitiveCyclist.com team assumed control of the chase, catching Johnson at the 7km to go marker. Shortly after, a select group of 7 men built a half minute lead that would survive to the line, with Mancebo taking top honors and Matt Cooke slotting in at 5th place.
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