Cycle Down the Cobblestones on July 4th

Cycle Down the Cobblestones on July 4th

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Jul 2nd 2007, 8:08pm By Kate Peruzzini

This Independence Day marks the Seventh Annual Cobblestone Criterium Classic bike race! Each July 4th, cyclists come from all over our region, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Canada to participate. This year, they'll be competing for more than $2,000 in cash and prizes.

"In European races, there's always a cobblestone segment," said Jim Costello, owner of Handlebars Cycling Company, which sponsors the event. Seven years ago, he recognized something unique in the Cobblestone District. "We wanted to put out a bike race utilizing two of the cobblestone streets in the district," he said.

Considering the fact that most local cycling events start and finish outside city limits, it's refreshing to see some competitive bike action in our neighborhood. The course runs about a mile in length, starting and finishing by HSBC Arena on Perry Street, and is one of the most challenging races of its kind because of the cobblestones.

Categories throughout race day are organized by age and skill level. The professional events award prize money to the first ten finishers, while number of participants dictates the depth of awards given in other categories. The first race category, at 9 am Wednesday morning, is for beginners, called CAT 5. The events continue through 2 pm, when the pro races begin. Course lengths vary depending on category.

Because the Classic is sanctioned by the USA Cycling association, participants must use road bikes and be licensed riders. If you're new to cycling, you can buy a single-day license the morning of the race and compete in the beginners category. Participants of all skill levels and ages can register for their events beginning at 8am Wednesday on Perry Street. There's space for spectators to stand near the start/finish line, where Sabres Party in the Plaza was held (a nice way to focus your positive sports energy elsewhere as you mourn the losses of Danny and Chris).

Whether you sport some spandex yourself, know someone who does, or simply enjoy a good race, come celebrate Buffalo's rich cycling history!

For more information, visit www.queencitycyclists.com.

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