Press Release
CRITERIUM SEASON SPOTLIGHTS TOP CYCLING TALENT AND 21ST CENTURY MEDIA ACCESS
April 11, 2007
Some of the best men and women cyclists in the world are ready to participate in the second annual USA CRITS Southeast series from April 28th thru May 6th. The eight races will not only define the best criterium* cyclists over several fast-paced days of competition, but also qualify top finishers for the Las Vegas World Criterium Championships in September.
A subset of the USA Crits series, USA CRITS Southeast has been added to the USA Cycling’s NRC Calendar with the most points ever awarded a criterium series. Cash prizes totaling $150,000 will be awarded to riders and an overall series winner will be crowned based on accumulated points over the eight days of racing.The races that form the proposed USA CRITS and USA CRITS Southeast series have been specifically chosen according to the ideals that have made criterium racing an American legacy: challenging courses that showcase arts and entertainment districts; a large and growing base of spectators; broad community support; and strong marketing opportunities for sponsors. Each event will also feature unique festival activities for the entire family.
This year’s addition of women’s racing to the series will bring new internationally ranked teams to the field including Team Cheerwine, Aarons Corporate Furnishings and Colavita. Certain events will also feature amatuer races.
Addtionally, this year the usacrits.com website will provide media professionals with unique up-to-the minute tools to assist in the preparations of their event coverage. Through customized podcasts, journalists and sponsors will be able to access interviews, race results, and local color elements direct from the race site just hours after the racers have crossed the finish line. This will facilitate deadlines as well as providing the expert, inside track to those not familiar with the sport or its participants.
For more information, visit: www.usacrits.com/se2007
* Criterium races are held on short courses (1/2 to 1 mile) allowing for up close viewing of team strategies and individual performance every minute. Professional commentating and lap award primes (pronounced “premes”) provide non-stop race action and updates for the veteran fan or the new spectator.