Hillsboro-Roubaix was as blockbuster as expected Saturday, although the debut of Bikereg was not without glitches. The Cat 5’s appeared to reach capacity within minutes, but slots were later freed after duplicate entries were weeded out. It reached capacity again -- for real this time -- at 10:20 a.m. (Congratulations to Joel Friedman (Bicycle Heaven) for being the last to slip in.)

As of this writing, the Cat 4’s appear headed to capacity, too, with fewer than 20 of the 100 spots available. Note that wait lists are now available in the event your field is sold out.

Meanwhile, the prestigious Nature Valley Grand Prix has selected Hillsboro-Roubaix as one of six Nature Valley Pro Ride races. This means that the top two men and women amateurs will gain coveted entry and other resources to the five-day stage race in Minnesota. (Here are the 2008 rules and benefits.) This is a major accomplishment for Hillsboro-Roubaix, and a tremendous opportunity for some of the top riders.

And this may be the best news of all: Among the confirmed riders in the Cat 4’s is longtime race director Rich Pierece (ICCC), who after years of nurturing this race has passed the reins and will finally get a chance to race it himself. Congratulations, Rich, and good luck.