This spring will bring an international spotlight to the city of LaGrange, where professional cyclists from across the globe will gather with excited support from the community to compete in a prestigious cycling race. The LaGrange Cycling Classic is one stop on the USA Criterium Speed Week Series, a multi-race competition with host cities across Georgia and South Carolina. On April 23, LaGrange residents and cycling enthusiasts from across the South will have the opportunity to see this thrilling race up-close as cyclists zip around the course located in the center of the city’s charming downtown area.
In the cycling community, a criterium is regarded as one of the most intense and competitive races to participate in, but also one of the most fun and are often accompanied by an enthusiastic block party packed with spectators. This year’s course will span Historic Downtown LaGrange’s central Main and Bull Streets, where onlookers can gather to enjoy the races along with music, local food and craft beverages. Throughout the day, amateur and kids’ races will take place, kicking off with the amateur juniors’ race at 1:20 p.m. followed by the children’s race at 4:00 p.m., where young riders starting at age three can hop on a bike and enjoy the fun. At 7:00 p.m., the professional women will take off, and the men’s professional race will begin at 8:30 p.m. Watch as these impressive athletes make laps around Downtown LaGrange at speeds of over 30 miles per hour.
While the LaGrange Cycling Classic is free to the public, there are several options to take the thrill of this race to the next level. A paid VIP experience includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and access to private tents and the Del’avant ballroom and rooftop garden, which is perched directly above the finish line for a prime viewing experience. For those who plan to host their own viewing party, the paid Tailgate Experience includes a 10-foot by 10-foot tent rental right on Main Street, close to all the action and spacious enough for the whole crew.
Other spots for great views of the races include Wild Leap Brewing and Overlook Plaza, where spectators can enjoy craft beer, vodka cocktails, frozen drinks and more in addition to a variety of snacks from food trucks. For those looking to enjoy a seated meal indoors while keeping up with the festivities, Mare Sol is right on the course and serves up a delicious menu of sandwiches, appetizers and elevated mains. Downtown LaGrange has a wealth of eateries, shops, galleries and more for visitors to explore, and the centrally-located Courtyard by Marriott is an ideal place to stay to get the most out of this special weekend. Cycling enthusiasts will adore the locally owned Goldens Bike Shop on Lafayette Square and families will appreciate the easy walkability of LaGrange’s downtown.
For more information on the LaGrange Cycling Classic and planning a trip to see all the city has to offer, please visit www.visitlagrange.com.
About LaGrange
Located an hour south of Atlanta, the city of LaGrange’s Southern charm, rich history and sunny green spaces make this Southwest Georgia community shine. A lovely downtown area is filled with unique shops and restaurants all within an easy walk from each other, making for a perfect easygoing weekend escape for families, couples or the solo traveler. Enjoy the city’s easygoing spirit while exploring musical venues, art museums, vintage boutiques, storied landmarks, restaurants and more, all connected by a the Thread, a 29-mile lush greenway for biking, walking and running. Follow @VisitLaGrange on Instagram and Twitter and connect on Facebook.com/VisitLaGrange for the latest news.
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