Bike races return Saturday to Winfield
Cyclists will be pedalling at high speed on quiet residential streets Saturday as Winfield plays host to its annual criterium-style bicycle races.
This year, however, there will be additional family-friendly activities to help entertain the crowds expected to watch hundreds of riders competing in a series of professional and amateur races.
"We want to make it more of a full community event rather than just the bike race," said Maria Collins, who is serving as the event planner.
Of course, the Winfield Criterium offers plenty of excitement on its own.
A criterium is a type of race in which riders do multiple laps on a short course.
On Saturday, more than $9,000 in prize money will be awarded to the winners of various age groups and ability categories. The races, which start at noon and end by 8 p.m., will take place on a milelong course next to Oakwood Park on Winfield's north side.
"It's really a tough course," said Collins, adding that there's a steady uphill climb and several sharp turns.
The Winfield Criterium is organized by the Athletes By Design Cycling Club.
Winfield's first criterium was held 16 years ago to help attract visitors to the downtown area. So many people attended through the years that the criterium grew to the point where it's become a tradition for the community.
Organizers say Winfield residents have embraced it.
"A lot of them end up throwing criterium parties at their houses and watch the bike racers throughout the day," Collins said. "It's awesome."
For racers and spectators, beverages and food will be for sale. Kids will get free hot dogs from the Knights of Columbus.
To entertain families in the park, there will be a list of events, including taekwondo demonstrations at 1 p.m., yoga for kids at 2 p.m. and a Zumba demonstration at 3 p.m. In addition, there will be a rock climbing wall, a sandcastle-building contest and other kid-friendly activities from noon to 5 p.m.
The first 100 kids who show up to the criterium will get free T-shirts.
Free parking and a shuttle will be provided from the Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital employee parking lot, just south of the Ronald McDonald House on Winfield Road.
Proceeds will be donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana.
For more information about the Winfield Criterium, visit winfieldcriterium.com.
If you go
What: Winfield Criterium
When: Noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 9
Where: Oakwood Park on Winfield's north side
Cost: Free for fans
Info: winfieldcriterium.com