The highly anticipated championship cycling event has arrived! The Carolinas Cycling Association is thrilled to declare that the charming town of Wade, located in Cumberland County, has been chosen as the host for the upcoming 2024 North Carolina and South Carolina Road Cycling Championship, scheduled to take place on April 27 and 28th.
“Hosting the Regional Road Cycling Championship in Cumberland County truly indicates the strong grassroots base that cycling has in southeastern N.C.,” said Mike Thomas, Race Director.
“On behalf of the Cross Creek Cycling Club, we are thrilled to host these two exciting days of amateur bike racing.”
Thomas also holds the position of President at the Cross Creek Cycling Club (C4), which recently marked its 20th anniversary in October 2023. C4 is a member club of USA Cycling that is based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the national governing body for bicycle racing in the US. C4 has been honored with the title of "Club of the Year" by USA Cycling on 13 occasions, across different categories. In 2021, USA Cycling specifically recognized C4 as the Master's Club of the Year.
The primary objective of the Cross Creek Cycling Club is to foster inclusivity in cycling, regardless of age or skill level. C4 advocates for all facets of biking, placing particular emphasis on promoting bicycle safety, educating cyclists about their rights and responsibilities, and prioritizing overall health and fitness.
Additionally, they endeavor to facilitate better communication among cyclists, creating avenues for both biking and socializing with fellow enthusiasts. To learn more about the Cross Creek Cycling Club, go to www.crosscreekcyclingclub.org.
The Regional Road Cycling Championship is set to showcase a diverse range of participants, including masters, elite riders, and juniors, in both male and female race categories.
Competitors will have the opportunity to vie for cash prizes totaling up to $1,400, in addition to the highly coveted State Championship Medals.
The 2024 North Carolina and South Carolina Road Cycling Championship is an event that holds immense importance for the cycling community. This championship provides a platform for both amateur and professional cyclists to showcase their skills and compete against the best in the region.
It serves as a stage where riders can test their limits, push themselves to new heights, and gain valuable experience in a competitive environment.
This championship not only brings together cyclists from different backgrounds but also creates a sense of unity within the community.
Sports Marketing Director for the Fayetteville Convention and Visitors Bureau said, “This cycling championship is the start of a collaborative effort between the cycling community, Cumberland County and the city of Fayetteville to bring high-quality amateur bike racing to the region”.
The racecourse, spanning 17 miles, commences at the Wade Community Fire Dept at 7130 Powell Street in Wade, NC. Thomas expressed gratitude for the support received from the Wade Fire Department, acknowledging their generosity in offering the race staging area, parking facilities and complimentary camping.
The race distances will range from 34 miles, equivalent to two loops, to a maximum of 85 miles, which involves completing five loops for the more experienced participants. To get a peek at the route check out it out here: https://www.strava.com/routes/3179172468379457354
Everyone is invited to participate in the event as a spectator or a competitor. The event is free of charge for spectators interested in cheering the racers on.
For those looking to compete, there will be race fields open to the general public on Saturday, April 27.
Go to bikereg.com for online registration details. Mark your calendars and get ready for a weekend of high-speed action and camaraderie. Wade is waiting to welcome you with open arms as you join in on the excitement of this prestigious championship.
For more information go to the CCA Regional Road Race Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/CCA-Regional-Road-Race
(Photo: Members of C4 pose in front of the Field of Honor at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in Downtown Fayetteville.)