The city of Hailey is accustomed to a festive parade, convivial social gatherings and a rowdy rodeo over the Independence Day holiday. New in 2008 is a bike racing criterium.
Road & Dirt and the Blaine County Recreation District are presenting the first annual BCRD Hailey Fourth of July Criterium following Hailey's Mile Long Independence Day Parade on Friday, July 4.
Sponsored in part by the city of Hailey and the Hailey Chamber of Commerce, the new event will feature a spectator-friendly four-corner course through downtown Hailey. Cyclists of all ages and levels will compete on road bikes.
The mass start and high-speed cornering and sprinting will be a treat for participants and spectators. Plans call for racing to begin at 1:30 p.m. following the parade. Registration begins at noon in front of KB's Burritos and Wise Guy Pizza.
The Development Pool (Men 4/5, Masters B and Juniors) have its 30-minute criterium at 1:30 p.m., followed by the Competitive Pool (Men 3, Women 1/2/3 and Master Men) at 2:05 p.m. for 45 minutes.
Spectators will certainly enjoy the Shimano Youth Race (9-and-under for 1 lap, ages 10-12 for 10 laps) at 2:55 p.m. for a 30-minute event. And then the feature race, a 60-minute criterium for the Elite Pool (Pro Men 1/2) begins at 3:30 p.m.
A current U.S. Cycling Federation (USCF) license must be presented at registration. One-day or annual USCF licenses may be purchased at registration. Entry fee is $35, although it's free for youth 12-and-under.
The event needs volunteers for registration duties and course safety, and other jobs in addition to sponsors for prizes. Race details are available at bcrd.org or roadanddirt.org. Or call 788-2117 ext. 212.
