News Summary
Spartanburg is marking the 20th anniversary of The Criterium cycling event, attracting around 600 cyclists and vibrant fans. Though the Spring Fling festival is canceled again, the cycling competition remains a favorite for racers. Participants highlight its unique atmosphere and challenging course. As road closures are set for the upcoming event, excitement builds for this celebrated community tradition that has raised significant funds for local initiatives.
Spartanburg is celebrating the 20th anniversary of The Criterium cycling event this year, sponsored by PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well. The highly anticipated event has attracted approximately 600 cyclists, highlighting its popularity among racers and spectators alike. The atmosphere is expected to be vibrant, with fans contributing to the excitement by ringing cowbells from 110 tailgating tents set up along the race course in downtown Spartanburg.
The event features a range of food and beverages for sale, allowing spectators to enjoy refreshments while watching the action unfold. Executive Director of PAL, Laura Ringo, noted that participants often express their fondness for the Criterium, stating that Spartanburg is frequently mentioned as a favorite race location due to its unique spectator experience. The race course provides an “open-air plaza” feel and includes “dangerously sharp left turns,” which enhances the thrill for both competitors and fans.
This year’s Criterium, while notable for its 20th anniversary, will take place without the accompanying festival, Spring Fling, for the second consecutive year. The cancellation was due to logistical challenges created by ongoing downtown construction. City leaders mentioned that they may evaluate the possibility of future street festivals as they proceed with developments. In 2021, the Criterium was held without Spring Fling as well, due to disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic.
Ringo expressed appreciation for the city’s robust support that has helped in the growth of the Criterium over the years. The event continues to utilize every available space as the city undergoes construction for the new planetarium. Spartanburg has a busy event season upcoming, with 19 events set to occur in May and June, including the 10th Annual Cribbs Kitchen Burger Cookoff on May 3, featuring 17 competing teams.
The Criterium categorizes various races, starting from Women’s CAT 4/5 to Men’s Pro, with scheduled times for each category. Last year, the event raised over $100,000 to support PAL’s initiatives, including trail development projects. Last year’s race saw participation from cyclists representing 14 countries, further emphasizing the international appeal of the event.
The Criterium is part of the Speed Week series and includes both amateur and professional categories. Approximately 250 professional riders—125 in men’s and women’s categories—are expected to compete, with pro races comprising differing lap counts: 50 for Women’s Pro and 70 for Men’s Pro. Anticipated speeds during professional races are around 28-29 mph on average, with potential peaks reaching 42 mph during sprints.
Road closures in the area will be in effect beginning April 30 and continuing through May 3 to facilitate the races and ensure safety. Motorcycles and a pace car will be utilized to enhance safety measures during the races, ensuring that both participants and spectators can enjoy the event in a secure environment. Spectators are advised to observe the races from designated viewing areas along Church Street, Broad and Main Streets, and Converse Street.
Despite alterations in the layout of the tailgate tents due to ongoing construction, the race route remains unchanged, ensuring that the essence of The Criterium is preserved. As Spartanburg marks this milestone in its cycling tradition, it not only celebrates its past but looks forward to future events that continue to foster community engagement and sporting excellence.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Spartanburg Regional Criterium Road Closures Announced
Spartanburg Regional Criterium Shakes Up Downtown Events
Additional Resources
- GoUpstate: Roads Closing in Downtown Spartanburg for Criterium
- Outside Online: Race Live Stream Spartanburg Criterium
- WSPA: Road Closures Issued for Spartanburg Regional Criterium
- GoUpstate: What to Know to Go to Spartanburg’s Criterium
- Cycling News: USA CRITS Races in Nebraska and North Carolina
- Wikipedia: Criterium
- Google Search: Spartanburg Criterium
- Google Scholar: Criterium Culture
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Criterium
- Google News: Spartanburg Criterium
