Taubman College North Campus Invites Cyclists for October 4th Criterium
The University of Michigan’s North Campus colleges and schools invite bicycle riders of all ages to join in the North Campus Criterium on October 4th. The event, running from 11:30 am – 3:30 pm, consists of four different races: a Juniors Race for kids and young teens; a Citizen’s Race open to anyone over 15 years of age; a USA Cycling sanctioned Pro-Am Race for riders in Categories 1 through 4; and a Team Relay open to all University of Michigan students, faculty and staff.
Organized by Emeritus Dean and Professor of Architecture and Urban Planning Doug Kelbaugh, the event is a testament both to North Campus’ community and landscape. Kelbaugh said, “As someone who bikes to work and recreationally, I thought this would be a good way to add to the vitality of North Campus, whose terrain is perfectly suited for a circuit bicycle race.”
Teams of University of Michigan staff and students are invited to participate in the Relay Race. The entire Ann Arbor and University of Michigan community, as well as anyone from further afield, are invited to participate in the open Citizen’s Race.
Professor Kelbaugh expressed his aim for at least one relay team from every school and college, whether all-male, all-female or co-ed. Teams can be comprised of faculty, staff or students. The organizers hope the Criterium will become an annual event and build a “friendly, competitive spirit over the years.”
The races will take place on a closed, 1.1 mile circuit throughout North Campus, with police and barricades at every intersection for the duration of the event. Entrance fees, available online, are subsidized to encourage participation from University affiliates and community members alike. This event is underwritten primarily by the College of Engineering, with help from the Taubman College, the School of Music, Theater and Dance, and the Stamps School of Art and Design (which is striking 5 dozen bronze medallions to be awarded to winners in many categories). Additionally, local commercial sponsors will be providing prizes in the form of gift certificates. One or two bike shops will have free mechanics on hand.
“North Campus may not be able to compete with Central Campus in arts and entertainment, but this is an event in which we can excel,” said Kelbaugh.
Free food and music are planned. Bring your own bike, water bottle and helmet. Spectators are welcome!
Organizers are actively seeking volunteers to help run the event, which can be signed up for on the site.
Visit nccrit.org to register for a race and learn more.
