Lilac City Twilight Criterium returns

One of the most exhilirating events last year had to be the Lilac City Twilight Criterium . It was the first USA Cycling-sanctioned race in downtown Spokane since the Olympic Trials and the Washington Trust Classic which happened in 1984 and 1988.  With cyclists racing more than 40 miles per hour just inches apart over closed downtown roads, it was unlike anything I had seen in Spokane.

If you missed out, you’re in luck. The 2013 Twilight Criterium will be July 6th from 5-9pm through the streets of downtown Spokane. Current Race Director Alan Jacob and some of his cycling friends from Spokane Rocket Velo cycling club witnessed criteriums successfully organized in other cities and they knew Spokane would support its own race. “The Twilight Criterium is fun for spectators. It’s very fast, exhilarating and on the edge of scary,” says Jacob. “The amount of wind generated as these racers go by is hair-raising.”

Jacob says cycling is a large part of his life as both the Twilight Criterium Race Director and the President of Spokane Rocket Velo. His love of bicycling began at age 13. Now, besides competitive cycling, he also bikes to work at Whitworth University. “We already have a strong cycling community in Spokane. With events like Spokefest and an active bike-to-work campaign, having a critierium strengthens Spokane’s commitment to cycling.”

In the 2012 Lilac City Twilight Criterium, more than 150 cyclists participated in eight categories. This year, more participants are anticipated with a free kids race and a Citizens Ragtag Rally. Race route and information can be found HERE .

The Lilac City Twilight Criterium is another example of the Spokane Sports Commission’s commitment to supporting Spokane’s club sports. Partnering with Spokane Rocket Velo to market the Twilight Criterium helps grow Spokane’s cycling community and gives an economic boost to the region with some participants traveling to Spokane for the race.