August 2017

Not Every City has a Criterium.

In a city with so many special events throughout the year, it can be easy to take Rochester experiences for granted. Our city, however, is incredibly fortunate to be part of the pro cycling circuit. Each year, the Rochester Twilight Criterium draws Olympic, national, and world champions from all over the globe to Upstate New York to compete. And, as spectators, we get to watch — FOR FREE — from just a few feet away as these world-class riders participate in the “NASCAR of bicycles.” The fact that this happens in an urban course, after dark, under the city lights just increases the excitement. This year’s Criterium will be held Saturday, August 19th, with races starting at 5:30. The final race, Pro-1 Men, will commence at 10:26 pm. There will once again be a food truck rodeo to meet the nourishment needs of spectators and racers alike.

New for 2017

• The safety of both cyclists and spectators has been enhanced by barricades surrounding the entire race course.
• The biggest beer garden ever — the whole interior of the course!
• New pro races — the U17/18 and the U23.
• High-speed running in a new 1-mile foot race.