* What is a criterium? (Source: USA Cycling)

The most common form of American racing, the criterium, it’s a multi-lap race held on a closed course generally a mile or less in length. These races, which usually last 30 minutes to two hours, are extremely fast — 30 mph and up — as the cyclists jockey for position and sprint for lap “primes” (cash or merchandise prizes, pronounced “preems”). The short closed course, generally with both right- and left-hand corners, makes this type of racing easy to watch for spectators and more accessible for the media.

In criteriums, it’s “go” from the gun as the strong riders force the pace and the weaker ones struggle to hang on. Quick acceleration and bike-handling ability are paramount — a successful criterium rider will be able to dive into a tight corner at high speed, leaning the bike over at a gravity-defying angle, then power out of the turn and instantly set up for the next. It’s important to stay near the front; the first few riders in a pack can take a corner with little or no braking. Those toward the back jockey for the best “line” through the turn, brake, then sprint to catch up with the pack as it accelerates, developing an “accordion” effect.

In an hour-long race where corners will number in the hundreds, the constant braking and accelerating takes its toll; riders who fall off the pace and find themselves out of contention or lapped by the field, will usually be removed from the race. A rider who crashes, flats or has some other mechanical problem, however, may take advantage of a free-lap rule to repair their bike, proceeding to a repair pit and re-entering the pack in the position he or she left it a lap later.

Attacks and chases follow one another with dizzying rapidity as riders from one team or another “take a flyer” off the front. Watch for situations in which one team greatly outnumbers the others. One team may have a rider attack, forcing the other teams to chase, then send another as soon as the first is reeled back in, repeating the process until the competition folds under the pressure.

If the pack stays together, the race may end in a field sprint, with each team maneuvering its fastest rider toward the front in the final laps.

While the criterium is a popular event, and is a national championship event, it is not contested at the world championships. In many instances, criteriums will constitute one part of a stage race.

* Do I need to a license to participate in the Wednesday nights Soldier Field Criterium Races?

Yes, a USA Cycling license is required to compete in the Soldier Field Criterium Series. You may also purchase a one-day license at an additional fee, however, doing so will relegate you to the Category 4/5 races; as a result, purchasing a yearly license is highly suggested. Purchase a USA Cycling Yearly license by visiting USA Cycling.

Are spectators welcomed, if so what is the cost to watch the action on Wednesday nights?

Absolutely, spectators are welcome to come and watch FREE of charge.

* What are the junior gearing restrictions?

Please refer to the USA Cycling recommendations on the issue.

Click here to see the official USA Cycling rules.

* What’s a racer to do when bad weather is heading towards the City of Chicago?

The races will be held rain or shine; however, USA Cycling reserves the right to cancel the races in the event it presents any danger to racers and spectators.

* What are the fees to race on Wednesday Nights?

The race fees apply to ALL categories.
Pre-Registration Entry Fee is $30 per race
Day of Registration is $35
One Day License is an additional $10
Juniors Race (ages 10 to 18 years of age) Free provided they race in the Junior designated races!

* Where do I park?

Please click here for parking and venue information.

* Can I offer riders water as they ride by?

For the safety of the riders and spectators, please do not reach out to offer riders water and food as they ride by. While it’s considerate of you to think of them, they will actually be racing by at a very high rate of speed, and even the slightest sudden movement or obstacle can cause an accident. Rest assured, the riders are prepared with proper water and nutrition

* Can I take photos?

Yes, you may take photographs f the riders; however, please refrain from jumping out onto the race course and/or leaning forward over the barricades as riders approach to take your photos. This puts you, other spectators and the racers in harm’s way. We also suggest you send us your best shot that we may choose to appear on our Blog/newsletter (note we will not provide any money remuneration for your contribution). The photos should be a combination of men/women and juniors for us to consider it for usage. Photo contributors should also provide the name of the photographer.

* What kind of live entertainment and family activities will there be?
Each week we will offer free unique entertainment for both family and spectators.

Please check back often for new event listings and feel free to contact us with any additional questions. We look forward to hearing from you!