Twilight Racing at Elmhurst Cycling Classic Allows for More Post-Work Spectating

The first race of the third annual Elmhurst Cycling Classic on July 24 will take off at 11:20 a.m., but a new format means the high speed racing won’t end until after dark.

Twilight criterium racing should allow more spectators to catch the amateur and professional racing action after work Friday, and it will increase race day excitement, according to race director Tim Radcliff.

“Not only will four of the fastest races occur after 5 p.m., allowing more spectators to see the action, the professional men will actually be racing the course under the stars,” Radcliff said in a statement. “Twilight racing is among the most exciting and well-attended type of cycling event in the country. The community and racers really love it. Elmhurst is unique in that it has all the right ingredients for successful twilight racing.”

The Elmhurst Cycling Classic is part of the Intelligentsia Cup, a tour of bike races in cities around the Chicago area that attracts professional riders from around the U.S.

Families and non-racing cyclists are invited to get in on the action with the Family Fun Ride, set to take place at 7:20 on the same course the professionals will use, according to the race website. The ride is free for pre-registered riders and $5 per rider for day-of registration. Advance registration will be open at the Olympia Chiropractic Elmhurst location, 533 South York Road - Suite D, until July 23.

For more information about racing, spectating or the Family Fun Ride, visit the classic’s Race Day Guide.

Proceeds from the Elmhurst Cycling Classic are distributed to area charities, and the event has donated more than $21,000 in its first two years.

Photo via Elmhurst Cycling Classic on Facebook.