The fourth annual Zeeland twilight Criterium is set for Friday, June 17, at 6 p.m.
A Criterium is, by definition, a one-day bicycle race down a circuit road course. It is the most common form of American racing, complete with a multi-lap race to the finish. The course, generally spanning up to a mile in length, is repeated by the cyclists until anywhere from 25 to 60 miles is covered. The cyclists are to successfully tear through consecutive corners of the course without a place-breaking wipe out. Quick acceleration, agility, and balance are essential to being a competitive contender in the race. Zeeland’s Criterium racers will charge through the streets of Zeeland in a competitive one-mile loop throughout historic downtown. Come join one of the city’s most exciting and competitive events swirling with heart pounding entertainment for both participants and bystanders.
The event commences with a 6 p.m. kick off of the free kids race from the help of your friends at Buffalo Wild Wings, where children 12 and under are welcome to come out and race on the same course used by the pros (each child must wear a helmet to be part of the race).
Children’s race at 6 p.m. (1 Lap)
Category 5 Race at 6:30 p.m. (30 minutes)
Category 3/4 Race at 7:15 p.m. (45 minutes)
Fat Bike Exhibition Race organized by Tripelroot at 8:10 p.m. (3 laps)
Category 1/2/3 Race at 8:30 p.m. (60 minutes)
Both start and finish of the race is held in front of Mainstreet Bicycle Company. Participants will cycle East on Main to Centennial; Centennial South to Cherry; Cherry West to Church; Church South to Central; Central West to Elm; Elm North to Main; Main East to finish.
At the close of each race, awards will be presented at the South East corner of Main and Church streets. The Prize list includes: Cat 1/2/3 – $2,000 (total) to the top ten. An additional $300 to top three place women. Cat 3/4 – $700 (total) to the top five finishers, with an additional $100 to the top three placed women. Cat 5 – $400 (total) to the top three finishers.
Online registration for $35 is available through Wednesday, June 15, at www.usacycling.com. Day of registration is $55 and racers are welcome to register as close as 30 minutes before their race starting time, registration will take place inside of the events Gold sponsor – Main Street Bicycle Co. 201 East Main. There will be a $15 discount off second race. All USAC rules will apply. For more information, please visit:www.zeelandcrit.com. Registration for the Fat Bike Exhibition Race is held inside Tripelroot, 146 East Main, now through race day. The race is free to enter but space is limited. A fat tire bike and helmet are required to be a part of this race.
