Bike race prepares for 17th trip to McMinnville -Cycling Classic set for May 10-11

This USA Cycling Federation-sanctioned event will draw over 350 bicyclists from all over the United States and even some foreign countries, vying for a total purse of $15,000.

The River Park Hospital Road Race and the Warren County Commission Time Trials will take place May 10 and will offer challenges for both the long-distance and short-distance racer.

The River Park Hospital Road Race begins at 8 a.m. on Saturday and is a long-distance event, with most cyclists racing a 55-mile loop ‘ and the professionals racing 110 miles ‘ in about 4 hours.

The Warren County Commission Time Trial is a short course determined by the fastest time. The course is 2-1/2 miles up Harrison Ferry Mountain with an 8 percent grade.

The Dr Pepper/SunDrop Criterium will begin at 8 a.m. May 11 and will be held in beautifully revitalized downtown McMinnville. It offers something for all racing ages and classifications. Narrow turns, deadman’s curve, and stamped concrete make this closed course great for both riders and spectators alike, as individuals and teams maneuver the course for position and cold, hard cash.

This two-day event is fun for not only the hardcore race enthusiast but the whole family as well.

Registration for the event is available at www.BikeReg.com, by downloading a registration form from the Chamber Web site at www.warrentn.com, or by calling the Chamber at 473-6611. Deadline for pre-registration by mail is Friday, May 2, and online registration ends at noon May 7.

If you would like to help sponsor the event, or volunteer to assist with the race, please contact Alicea Weddington or Joyce Lawson at the McMinnville-Warren County Chamber of Commerce at 473-6611.