BERKSHIRE CYCLING CLASSIC JOINS UCI WORLD CYCLING TOUR

Lenox, MA, Hosts the Official American UCI Event

Sparta Cycling is pleased to announce that the first annual Berkshire Cycling Classic in Lenox, Massachusetts on May 6, 2012 has been named the American stop on the fifteen event UCI WORLD CYCLING TOUR for 2012 through 2014. The rides are held as Cyclosportif (or Gran Fondo) event formats.

“The UCI (International Cycling Union) status adds a new dimension to the Berkshire Cycling Classic,” explained Sparta Cycling principal John Eustice. “Enthusiast cyclists can choose to experience a true UCI racecourse at their own pace, or really test themselves against the best national age group riders. The format is also ideal for licensed racers looking for a new challenge, and allows them the exciting chance to qualify for a World Championship.”

“Our Berkshire Cycling Classic offers a unique experience for cyclists, whether they want to have a ride with friends and family in Lenox and the Berkshire Mountains, or qualify for the UCI WORLD CYCLING TOUR final”, said Eustice.

The UCI World Cycling Tour (UWCT) is a series of UCI-sanctioned Gran Fondo/Cyclosportif events that are held all over the globe. The top 25% in each age group of the qualifier events will automatically have the right to compete in the UWCT Final and race for the coveted UCI rainbow jersey. The Berkshire Cycling Classic will be the only UWCT event in the United States this year.

“The Berkshire Cycling Classic allows any & all participants to a ride on a top-quality international road race course. The two routes are long and hilly and provide the perfect setting for those who wish to test their legs in a friendly and competitive atmosphere,” explained Eustice, a former US Pro Cycling champion. “It is very challenging, a fantastic course, reminiscent of a Tour de France.“

Starting and finishing in Lenox, Massachusetts on Sunday May 6, 2012, the Berkshire Cycling Classic features route selections of 62 and 81 miles (100k and 130k). Overall times for both distances will be recorded and ranked according to age groups.

Lenox, nestled in the heart of the beautiful Berkshire Mountains provides the perfect host venue for this challenging Cyclosportif.

“Becoming the sole U.S. race on the UCI World Cycling Tour takes the Berkshire Cycling Classic to a level we never could have anticipated,” stated Kimberly Flynn, Chairperson of the Lenox Marketing & Events committee. “We look forward to hosting cyclists from all over the world in May and for years to come as they enjoy the beauty and culture of Lenox and the Berkshires.””

Registered riders in the UCI WORLD CYCLING TOUR sanctioned Berkshire Cycling Classic will receive technical support provided by Mavic USA, well-positioned “feed zones”, or rest stops, complete with energy food, choices for  hydration, and areas to relax as they tackle the course. Pre-registered riders will receive a commemorative t-shirt and vendors will be on-hand to sell a limited edition jersey. Following the main event, riders and their families will be  invited to post-ride celebrations hosted by our many local partners.

For more information on the event, please visit their web site.
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Sparta Cycling specializes in international cycling event and television productions. Current events include the Skyscraper Harlem Cycling Classic presented by Rock Star Games, the Berkshire Cycling Classic and the Bucks County Classic. Founded in 1998, Sparta productions have included the Tour of Connecticut, the Housatonic Valley Classic, the Univest Grand Prix and Cyclosportif 100k, the US Open of Cycling, the USA Cycling Espoirs Time Trial and Road Racing Championships, the USA Cycling Junior Time Trial, Road Race and Criterium Championships, and the Paralympic National Cycling Championships. Sparta Cycling uses deep and expert cycling knowledge to craft cycling championships and cycling events that perfectly fit the needs of host communities and sponsors.

For more information, please contact
John Eustice, Sparta Cycling
jde@spartacycling.com
917 699 4566

The 3rd Annual Adirondack Adventure Festival in North Creek will be held on May 5 & 6. Events include a 50 mile and a 20 mile road bike tours and a 10 mile mountain bike ride.  In addition to the bike tours, we have free river raft rides, guided hike, live music, craft fair, Adirondack wildlife exhibits, fly-fishing demonstrations, and more for the whole family.  The 55th Whitewater Derby is also running that weekend.

Registration for all is at 9:30 am and is FREE. All rides start at 10 am from the

North Creek Train Station, 3 Railroad Place, North Creek NY.

Details at   http:/​/​www.​bikenewyork.​org/​ride/​five-boro-bike-tour/​