Sports

Main Line Bike Race All Set For Aug 11

In addition to the race, the day will feature food, kids activities, a beer garden, and much more. See details of the upcoming event here.

See what's going on at the Main Line Bike Race this weekend.
See what's going on at the Main Line Bike Race this weekend. (Renee Schiavone/Patch Staff)

ARDMORE, PA — On Sunday, Aug 11, thousands of spectators will come to Ardmore to cheer on amateur and professional cyclists at the third annual Main Line Bike Race from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. announced Narberth Ambulance.

Cycling fanatics from across the region will descend upon downtown Ardmore to watch as some of the sport’s top athletes race through town.

Fans will also enjoy free activities in the Family Fun Zone from 11a.m. to 4p.m.

Find out what's happening in Ardmore-Merion-Wynnewoodfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"This event brings our communities together for an action-packed day of racing and family fun," said Chris Flanagan, Narberth Ambulance Chief. "The event proceeds benefit our first responders and the state-of-the-art equipment we need to save lives."

The team — comprised of career and volunteers from Narberth Ambulance, in conjunction with support from Lower Merion Township, Ardmore Business Association, Ardmore Initiative and many others — are working hard to ensure a successful presentation of a first-class event for a first-class township.

Find out what's happening in Ardmore-Merion-Wynnewoodfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

This criterium style bike race, consisting of a one-mile closed circuit loop through the business district of Ardmore, including Lancaster Avenue, provides a unique experience for local families to get an up close and personal view as professional cyclists from around the United States race by at top speeds.

As the competitors pedal dozens of laps around the course right in front of them, there are plenty of opportunities to cheer and ring those cow bells!

The new Family Fun Zone, will be free and open to the public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m..

Children of all ages are welcome to get in on the action for free at Schauffele Plaza, 99 Cricket Terrace. A roaming magician will stroll the area and entertain. Kids will also enjoy face painting and body art.

Take flight and soar up to 25 feet in the air on a four station Eurobungy. Jump, flip or try something new on this gravity defying ride. Slide down a giant, double lane, circus themed slide.

Soccer darts, the newest sporting craze gaining national attention. Players kick a velcro covered ball to a giant bulls-eye target to collect points.

Fans can enjoy live music throughout the day in Schauffele Plaza sponsored by Ardmore Music Hall, including a kids band, and check out the classic car exhibit on Lancaster Ave.

Tired Hands Brewing Company is operating a beer garden with specialty sandwiches. Plenty of restaurants and stores in Ardmore, many on the race path, will be ready to serve.

The Main Line Bike Race, a series of eight criterium-style races, is open to all male and female Cat 1-5 riders with "masters races" (45+, 55+) giving every skill level access to a great US cycling approved course.

All children between the ages of 4 and 9 are invited to take part in a sprint style race for free at 1:10 p.m.

For anyone over 10 years of age who wants to experience the thrill of the course, at 1:30 p.m, and for $20 per person, the Family Race Course Experience will get you a racer number and a rare taste at this race circuit.

The finale races, sponsored by Independence Blue Cross and Lankenau Medical Center, begin at 2 p.m.

All riders will be required to wear helmets and all participants can register at online here.

Proceeds from the event benefit Narberth Ambulance, and help with the modernization of their fleet of 911 ambulances.

To register or for more information, visit the race website here.

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