But because of the rock 'n' roll-party atmosphere surrounding the Aloha Tower Marketplace race site, the keen competition among many of the world's best bikers was pretty much overshadowed.
"The race turned out to be a fun event, a nonserious competition staged to give exposure to the tour," said women's winner Giove, who earned $100 for one minute and 16.36 seconds of work.
Added Colorado's Elke Brutsaert, who clocked the second fastest women's time (1:16.56): "A good race for spectators and, best of all, I didn't fall or hit anyone."
While blaring music, ample food and grog kept the party rocking, Lopes was blowing away the men's field.
The downhill racing specialist blasted around the short course in 1:07.90, nearly three seconds faster than second-place finisher Nick Fied of Texas. Lopes won $200.
The race for world-class professionals drew 76 participants, including 23 women. Cyclists raced against the clock, starting at 30-second intervals.
Yesterday's finishes determined the starting order of today's time trials at Windward Oahu's Kualoa Ranch.
Yesterday's tight half-mile prologue course was run using the narrow pedestrian walkways and paths between the Aloha Tower Marketplace's shops and kiosks.
Surrounded by shoppers and spectators, the bikers held their audience captive. Course marshals rang cow bells warning people of approaching racers. "Short and tight - fun for participants and spectators alike," said Fresno's Kristi Hill, a team rider for Nexus/Breezer, who finished in 1:26.30.
Germany's Maria Knust enjoyed her first race ever in Hawaii. "It's a good start for an important season," she said.
Knust, who finished yesterday's race in 1:30, will represent Germany in mountain biking at the summer Olympic Games at Atlanta.
The Hooters Restaurant corner of the prologue course became an instant hit - for a couple of reasons.
"Refreshments were always readily available," said spectator Clyde Rosa of Nuuanu, "and with the excitement of bikes flying over the nearby stairs, it was a Hooters show at its best."
At least four men crashed their bikes in their attempt to negotiate the stairs. A slippery approach was thought to be the culprit. No serious injuries were reported.
"Hooters always manages to get exposure. But seldom of this type. We love it," said Dave Spencer, the restaurant's manager.
Don Fritts, with a 15th overall finish in 1:14.13, was the first Hawaii finisher yesterday, followed by local rider Ernest Drosnik (32nd overall in 1:16.89).
The Big Island's Chris Seymour, who finished 36th in the men's field in 1:17.63, nearly crashed while flying off the Hooter's staircase.
"I was sideways starting my flight, but luckily I straightened out, gaining control on the landing," he said.
Honolulu's Ray Brust, who finished 47th in 1:22.55, was excited about the prologue and the exposure it gave to local cycling.
"A pro race in the marketplace. What a way to promote biking," he said.
If the competition, fun and games weren't enough, Hans "No Way" Rey, one of the nation's top trick cyclists, filled any lull.
With his jumps, twists, climbs and free falls, Rey's act proved a real crowd-pleaser.
The second annual Mountain Tour runs through Sunday. All remaining events are scheduled at Kualoa Ranch. The public is invited and admission is free. Call 521-4322 for details.