Bobby Lea and Jackie Simes, both riding for Pure Energy-ProAirHFA, (Simes represents the Jamis Sutter Home Team in road races) will take the starting line February 2, 2012 for the 50th running of the Copenhagen 6-Day.

Lea from Topton, PA and Simes from New Tripoli, PA, first began riding together as a team in 2010. “By the end of that summer season we began to get in synch”, said Lea. “We both raced as kids at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center. So, we’ve had plenty of general track experience. But, it takes a while to understand each other’s individual technique on the steeply banked European tracks, which is crucial in 6-day style team racing. Copenhagen is one of the top sixes. We’ll be ready”.

Reached at his office at the Ballerup Super Arena just outside of Copenhagen, race promoter, Henrik Elmgreen commented about the Americans and his event. “I’ve known Jackie several years as he raced our U23 event [for under 23 year old riders] in 2008. This past summer I saw he and Bobby Lea at the 6 Giorni delle Rose in Italy. They were the big surprise there, racing shoulder to shoulder with the very best teams. I’m quite pleased to have them now in Copenhagen”.

Not only is this the 50th edition Copenhagen 6-day race but it also marks the last time Henrik Elmgreen and his will wife serve as the race organizers. “Needless to say with this as the 50th and Helle and I stepping aside, there will much celebrating. And you can count on an extra hard racing program to complement the fun. That will kick off with a traditional long hard 100 kilometer Madison (team race) on the first night. This year’s event will be a great one. Don’t miss it,” Mr Elmgreen added.