Riders race along Emma Avenue in downtown Springdale during the Natural State Criterium Series on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. (Todd Gill/Fayetteville Flyer)A series of spectator-friendly bike races continues this week in downtown Springdale.
The Natural State Criterium Series returns for the second races of the season on Wednesday (July 27). The events includes several categories of races on a closed course at Shiloh Square.
The criterium (or crit) races feature riders racing multiple loops around the course. The start-finish line is located on Emma Avenue (see map below). The course winds through several downtown streets and each lap should take 2-3 minutes to complete.
The series began in June. A third event is scheduled for Aug. 31.
The races begin with the “First Chance Category” event designed for anyone who is new to bike racing or crit races at 4:30 p.m. The First Chance race includes experienced coaches from Natural State Rock & Republic who will ride the course with the racers giving tips and pointers along the way. The First Chance category is less about competition and more about skill and confidence building.
Riders race along Emma Avenue in downtown Springdale during the Natural State Criterium Series on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. (Todd Gill/Fayetteville Flyer)A 20-minute women’s race is next on the schedule at 5 p.m., followed by the 30-minute “C Race” (5:30 p.m.) and 40-minute “B Race” (6:30 p.m.) which are open to all riders.
The night ends with the “A Race,” (7:15 p.m.) a 50-minute event which draws the area’s most talented riders, including some professional racers.
Men and women will be scored separately in the A, B and C races, with prizes or cash available to the top three riders.
A 2-lap fat tire fun race is scheduled at 6:10 p.m. between the C and B races.
There is no charge to watch the races, but anyone interested in racing should visit BikeReg.com.
Riders race along Main Street in downtown Springdale during the Natural State Criterium Series on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. (Todd Gill/Fayetteville Flyer)
