The last time Norman experienced the whirl of criterium bicycle racing was 2007. Finally, after nearly three decades, Norman will play host to a new criterium experience.
Dubbed “Maverick Criterium,” this USA Cycling-sanctioned cycling event will spend the final weekend of May taking racers and spectators alike through some of Norman’s picturesque areas. On Saturday, May 31, racers will enjoy a tour through Norman’s historic Campus Corner. The following day on June 1 will feature a figure-eight course through downtown Norman’s Main Street.
“The Maverick Criterium builds on Norman’s long cycling tradition by adding a new annual celebration of the sport,” said Trent Brown, director of Norman Sports Commision.
But the fun isn’t unique to the riders participating in the race. The event is more akin to a festival with Norman’s local businesses and restaurants featuring their products and services to the spectators on hand. There will even be a Porsche car show on Buchanan Avenue for spectators jumping from each straightaway of the Saturday race.
The city of Norman has a long history of cycling culture. With the presence of the University of Oklahoma, students as far back as the late-1920’s adopted what was known as a “European custom” of riding bicycles around campus. Norman’s neighborhoods also allow for easy cycling to get to and from destinations.
Recently, there have been more efforts to improve Norman’s cycling culture. 2015 saw the creation of the Bicycle League of Norman, which strives to advocate and promote cycling of all forms in Central Oklahoma. In 2016, the League of American Bicyclists recognized the city as a Bronze Level Friendly Community.
Norman’s cycling infrastructure has also been improved over the previous decade with bike lanes throughout the city and racks being placed in high-cycling areas like Campus Corner. This is an effort that is continuing, hoping to build Norman into a cycling hub.
All this makes the return of a criterium race to Norman a part of a natural progression.
“It is exciting to bring this kind of high-energy event back to the heart of our community,” added Brown. “Local athletes, businesses, and fans can come together for a weekend that highlights everything we love about biking in Norman.”
The weekend, put together by the Norman Sports Commission and race director Aaron Dyer, aims to reignite the city’s love and culture of cycling in a celebration fit for the kickoff of the summer months.
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