Oregon Cycling Magazine

by Jim Anderson

Fast, fun bike racing for everyone starts up again this summer at Portland International Raceway.

Portland International Raceway (PIR) is usually filled with racecars roaring around the track. But on Monday nights this summer, hundreds of cyclists will take over PIR as Lakeside Bicycles Monday Night Races kicks off its 12th season.

“Bicycle racing continues to grow at PIR, and we see new racers each year trying it out,” said series organizer Jim Anderson, “We are adding clinics for novice women who want to see what the sport is all about, in hopes of seeing a growth in the women’s fields. Also, with the addition of the track being repaved, we expect our great bike racing venue to be packed with racers this summer ­ right in Portland¹s back yard.”

The series has added clinics that will run on the 2nd Monday of the month, and will focus on the basics of how to get started in racing. There will be a brief intro talk prior to the race start, and followed by debriefing after the race. Experienced women racers will lead this. This is a great way to see what racing is all about, ask questions and meet other women that are riding. Clinics will run approximately 30 minutes before the race and 30 minutes after the women¹s race finishes.

All levels and abilities are welcomed and encouraged to attend: all that¹s required is a helmet, a road bike and a sense of adventure. Experienced riders from local racing teams are on hand to provide guidance and answer questions. There are separate races for novice masters men (aged 30+), novice women, two categories for more experienced masters men, and an open women category for women of any age and ability.

The course is the flat and wide 1.9-mile loop of Portland International Raceway (I-5 Exit #306B). Featuring high-quality pavement for cycling. The raceway circuit is closed to all car traffic for the Monday night bike races.

Entry fee is only $13 for women and masters men, $5 for women under 18. Racers who avoid traffic on I-5 by bike commuting, carpooling or taking MAX to PIR receive $1 off entry, and race organizers will donate $1 to the Bicycle Transportation Alliance, a local non-profit working to make Oregon one of the best places in the world to ride a bike.

Top racers win gift certificates (from Lakeside Bicycles) nightly and for the monthly series, but the emphasis is on learning, improving and getting a great workout in a fun, sociable and exciting environment. Racing starts at 6:15pm on Monday nights May 5­ August 25 (no racing July 21st). More information at: www.racemondaynight.com

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