Spectators

Saturday June 8, 2024

Ample parking at the Elmhurst University Alexander Lot

What it's like to race

Want to know what it is like to race in a criterium?

A criterium, or "crit", is a bike race held on a short course, often run on closed-off city center streets. Success in road criteriums requires a mix of solid technical skills — in particular, the ability to corner rapidly and sharply - while maintaining balance and speed, elbow to elbow. Racers must possess an exceptional "sprint" ability to attack other riders, repeatedly accelerate hard from corners, and know how to ride safely with a large group on a short circuit. On the Elmhurst Cycling Classic course, racers zoom by every three minutes or fewer.

the phase three brewing Beer Garden

at The Wilder Mansion

The Wilder Mansion Garden will have a selection of Phase Three Brewing beer, red & white wine, soft drinks, and Arnold Palmer iced tea. The Wilder Mansion front yard is a spectacular space from which to enjoy the race, as it's immediately in front of the start/finish line! Food vendors will be located right alongside.

Family-friendly attractions around the course include:

an expansive playground for kids large and small
plenty of shade trees and abundant grass to play on
Elmhurst Public Library, Elmhurst Art Museum, Elmhurst University and Restaurants and shops just blocks away!

Walk along Prospect Avenue and explore the Expo area. Grab lunch or dinner from one of our food vendors, or enjoy the goodies from the Expo vendors.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Bring the kids to watch the races, especially the action later in the day! Stand just feet away from the elbow-to-elbow action as the racers zoom by at speeds over 30 mph. Walk the course, visit neighbors, join a cookout!

DON’T MISS THE FINISH at the Wilder Mansion! Prospect Avenue sidewalks will come alive with fans, and an expo area near Wilder Mansion will be a great spot to catch all the action!

Ride to the event! A Bike Valet is offered by the Elmhurst Bicycle Club.

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Spectator Guide

Fun for Kids

Wilder Park is a jewel in the community and the perfect location for a summer bike race, not only because it is right on the course, but because it truly offers something for everyone. Check out Elmhurst Park District for programs like Movie Night In The Park the night before.

schedule a party with friends!

Join your neighbors for cook-outs and parties to watch the racers go by your house! Many residents use this day as an opportunity to have friends over or host parties. Members of the Elmhurst Cycling Classic Committee will be visiting residents who have block parties underway to supply race goodies. Stay tuned for details, and be sure to walk to Wilder Mansion for the finish of the race!