Downtown State College will host a fast-paced, competitive cycling event for the first time this summer.
The inaugural Happy Valley Cycling State College Criterium on July 26 will offer a closed-loop downtown course and will serve as the Pennsylvania State Criterium Elite and Masters Division Championships.
Unlike road races, criterium, or crit, races consist of multiple laps on a closed circuit, usually in urbanized areas. They typically last 30 to 60 minutes, resulting in intense, high-speed action.
“It requires quick acceleration, tactical positioning and sharp cornering skills,” Eric Engelbarts, executive director of the Happy Valley Sports and Entertainment Alliance, said in a statement. “That makes it very spectator friendly. It’s elite cycling and entertainment in one memorable event.”
The course for the USA Cycling-sanctioned event will run from East Beaver Avenue to South Pugh Street to East Foster Avenue to South Garner Street, allowing spectators up-close views as elite criterium cyclists compete.
Engelbarts said the HVSEA hopes to provide “an unforgettable experience for racers and spectators.”
Races will start at 9 a.m. and are split into level categories for juniors, masters and elite. The day will culminate with the women’s elite categories Pennsylvania State Criterium Title Race at 3:30 p.m. and the men’s elite title race at 4:45 p.m.
Along with the state championship, the top finishers take home $500 in the women’s elite and $750 in the men’s elite.
““The Elite and Masters Criterium championships bring together the best riders in Pennsylvania to compete against their peers for state titles and medals,” Pennsylvania Cycling Association President David Mitchell. “Riders know they will have to be at their best to come out on top. Victories don’t come easy, but a state title is very coveted and well earned.”
Registration is open to up to 500 cyclists until 5 p.m. on July 23. Discounted rates ranging from $25 to $55 are in effect until July 1.
Kids will also have a chance to get in on the action with a fun race for children in kindergarten through sixth grade at 2:45 p.m. K-2 will have a shorter route and grades 3-6 will have a slightly longer route. Registration for the kids race is free.
HVSEA is organizing the event with support from the Downtown State College Improvement District and State College Borough.
“It’s a perfect fit for our outdoor, bike-loving community,” Lee Anne Jeffries, DSCID executive director, said. “Our local businesses are excited to be part of the action, with racers and fans bringing energy and momentum right to their front doors.”
Mount Nittany Health will serve as the official medical provider for the event, and The Bike Roost will provide neutral support.
