Intelligentsia Cup cycling series to hold West Dundee event

A section of downtown West Dundee will be transformed into a raceway for a one-day cycling competition this summer.

The West Dundee criterium, scheduled for July 20, is part of the 2016 Intelligentsia Cup, an eight-race series around the Chicago area. A criterium in Glen Ellyn was also recently added to the series schedule.

West Dundee trustees this week unanimously favored supporting the event, which is expected to draw 500 racers and nearly 1,000 spectators to the downtown area throughout the day.

With a start and finish line at Washington and Fourth streets, cyclists will loop around a 0.7-mile course that includes Washington Street, Lincoln Avenue, Fourth Street, Geneva Street and Sixth Street. Race official Tom Schuler said the course's steep hills and proximity to the Fox River set it apart from other locations.

"It's an incredibly challenging course, and very scenic, too," Schuler said, noting racers could reach 40 mph while traveling downhill. "We think the riders will really appreciate that aspect and make this a very popular race in our series."

The races, which range from 30 to 90 minutes, would begin at 10 a.m. and continue until about 8 p.m., organizers said.

Cyclists will be of various ages and abilities, from amateur to professional, Schuler said. Organizers may also hold a ride for kids or families to participate.

Spectators can line up along the route to watch the fast-pace races, Schuler said. An expo with food, beverages and other vendors would be open to the public along Second and Washington streets.

Race organizers are also working with the village to address several concerns brought up by trustees. For example, upward of 20 residents could be blocked from entering and leaving their homes that day, village officials said, so race organizers may designate certain areas for resident parking.

Some businesses, including a convenience store and a hair salon, would also be blocked by the race, but Schuler said pedestrians can easily cross the racecourse - with the help of volunteers - in between laps and races.

The Intelligentsia Cup is in its fifth year and is one of the largest cycling series nationwide. Trustee Thomas Price said he expects the race to put West Dundee on the map.

"I think it'll help the downtown area and bring us some exposure," he said. "And being in the downtown will only help the event, plus the outdoor vendors to help make it a nice event for the residents."