Cyclists Gear Up for Two 2013 Criteriums in Atlanta Area

Some of the best cyclists in the country will be coming to the Atlanta area this spring to participate in criterium races.  The north side cities of Roswell and Sandy Springs have scheduled races in April and May, 2013.  These fast, multi-lap races on urban streets are exciting for spectators to watch.  Here are the highlights of criterium racing and the upcoming events.

The races are typically 25-60 miles in length on a closed course of about one mile.  Fast acceleration and good handling are critical as riders jockey for position from the outset.  Cyclists will be riding at speeds of 30 mph and faster.  Riders who cannot keep up with the leaders will quickly fall behind.  The races usually take 1-2 hours to complete.  Categories for racers include men, women, juniors, and masters.

The 12th annual Roswell Criterium will be held April 28, 2013.  It is the largest race in the metro area.  The one mile course is mostly flat, with 5 left hand turns and a 3% steady grade on the back side of the course.  The start and finish line is in the historic downtown area, near the corner of Norcross and Canton Streets.  Spectators will find many good areas to view the races.  Riders will sprint down a long stretch on Canton Street.  The corners of Canton/ Norcross Streets and Canton/Woodstock will have tight turns.

There is an expanded schedule of activities for spectators and families to enjoy, including a Kids Zone, Vendor Village, and beer garden.  Children ages 6-12 can participate in a Safety Rodeo and Kids Races.  The Safety Rodeo will be held at Roswell United Methodist Church, at 814 Mimosa Boulevard.  The 2013 Roswell Mayor’s Ride will begin at 8am at Roswell Area Park on Woodstock Road.  This is a fun recreational ride for all ages.  Participants can choose the length they want to ride- 6, 20, 42, or 62 miles around the city.  Pre-registration is required.

The 6th Annual Global Imports Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge is scheduled for May 5, 2013.  This race is the final leg of the USA Southeast Crit Series Speed Week, with 7 races in 9 days.  The series pays $150,000 in prize money to professional racers.  Riders will be trying to qualify for the USA Crits Finals.  Races will run from 8:45am-6pm.  On race day spectators can also enjoy The Sandy Springs Food and Wine Classic.  More than 30 area restaurants will be offering samples of their cuisine.  Food booths will be set up along Sandy Springs Circle and will be open from 11am-6pm.

Allison Reinert is a senior marketing & PR consultant for The Holiday Inn Express® Hotel & Suites N- Atlanta Perimeter Mall.  The hotel is located directly off Georgia 400 and I-285 near Perimeter Mall in Dunwoody, GA.  With the property’s courteous staff, reasonable rates, and terrific amenities, this Atlanta Perimeter hotel is the place to "Stay Smart" in the Atlanta Perimeter Center area.

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