Labor Day weekend held the promise of pedaling fun for all ages and
skill levels. The event included tour rides, time trials, family fun
ride, Criterium races, Kids’ Cup, and road races for the competitive
minded. And for those not so inclined, the Village included children’s
activities, bouncers, games, BMX demonstrations, live music and
refreshments free to the public.
The tours ranged from 25, 50, 65 and 100 miles winding through hills
and countryside, past the Cadillac Ranch, and with a view of longhorn
and peacock to mention a few of the sights. New friendships were made
while feeling the wind blow in your face.
Riders from Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas competed
in the time trials, Criterium, and road races. The time trials were on
a hilly country stretch for approximately 7 miles of out and back. The
day long Criterium races were on a closed-course in downtown Amarillo
on asphalt and brick surfaces. The road races were held Sunday west of
town on a varied 26 mile loop including hills and an 8 foot wide paved
path normally designated only for runners and cyclists.
The Criterium races were interrupted about 6:00 p.m. Saturday to allow
the younger riders to compete at shorter distances on the same course
as the adults. This was the first year for the Kids’ Cup. The
competitors ranged in age from 3 to 12. TBC Local Outreach Coordinator
Cunningham worked with OT Classic Director Gary Moore to have water
bottles, t-shirts, jerseys, helmets, and other age appropriate prizes
as awards for the winning boy and girl of each group, but no child left
without something. All the “older” riders, parents, spectators, vendors
and entertainers rallied to show support for every youngster as they
sped around the course. After the races, you could hear excited little
voices exclaiming “Did you see me? I rode fast.” It was the best sound
all day.
TBC
