The first national elite event held at the NSC Velodrome since 2001 set records in more ways than one!  Roberto Chiappa, to no one's surprise, set two track records. The crowds set attendance records and all the racers rolled away happy with the event.

 

When asked about their personal experiences at the event, two local riders Linsey Hamilton and James Tainter gave answers that tell a lot about the competition: 
 
"I was expecting a very fast race and our women's field delivered," stated Hamilton. "That was definitely the fastest
48 lap scratch race I've ever participated in!"
                                                                                   
"YES!! It was some of the best racing I have been involved in, in a LONG time," exclaimed Tainter. "Guys/gals raced hard, competed hard and still didn't forget to have 'fun'! Sometimes the 'fun' part is lost, but everyone this weekend was great!"

 

Read the full interviews of these riders.

 

Beyond a top level competition, the setting of new records and races that stole the crowds' breath, the MN Fixed Gear Classic was also a showcase for our sport and the unique venue we call our own.
 
The common thread in these riders' comments and the views of people who were present on June 7-8 is the incredible spirit that settled around the velodrome. The event's stated purpose was creating a top-level competition but as many noted, there was something more in the air than racing.
 
The riders were motivated by the competition but even more, their enthusiasm and their will to have fun really set the crowds ablaze. They weren't sparing with emotions and the event created "something else" as the competition grew tighter. This spirit is a real pride for the NSC and gives us momentum for more events of this caliber. 

This week will be busy at the velodrome as Cat 4 and 5 and unlicensed riders will be invited to theWednesday's Development Night Races. Be sure to be there to support the riders or experience the track for a couple of races. The track is open to anyone licensed or not. Click here for more details about this week's racing.

 
The other meeting of the week is the Thursday Night Lights.  The fourth Thursday night meeting of the season will see riders race for the second Penn Cycle Points Race of the Series.  We'll also feature a crowd favorite - a Joker's Gamble Points Race.

 

Thursday, June 26, the first of two Team Pursuit Challenge nights will take place.Two teams will race against each other to record the fastest time in a 4000m Team Pursuit this season.  Click here for more details.