This weekend is a bit of a break from the last few weeks of high intensity and drama, but the racing should be just as good, and I expect more than a few big names and teams will show up for a final tune-up before the national championships at Downers Grove the following weekend.

Saturday’s race in Grayslake takes place on a U-shaped course on good pavement in a nice housing development. Veloist has video from last year. The corners are sweeping and gentle, perfect for beginners, a little tougher for breakaway artists, but it can be done. Could this be the first race in a month where we go without a spate of crashes?

The Glencoe Grand Prix was a hit when it made its debut last year and it should be even better this year. Winners get jerseys, and thanks to chip timing, everyone should get results promptly and accurately. Even better, much of the course has been newly repaved.

Turn 4 may prove tricky for the higher categories, especially when it’s taken at top speed on the frantic final lap. (Lower categories and juniors use a less technical route. Check out the maps and videos.) It’s much sharper than 90 degrees

don’t you dare try to sneak up the inside.

Note that online registration saves you $5 at either event, although Grayslake‘s deadline has passed, and less than a day remains to register for Glencoe.

For anyone with gas to burn, the richest races of the weekend will be down in Marion, Ind., where a total of $20,000 is up for grabs Friday and Saturday. Most of that is reserved for the P/1/2 invitational. I don’t know if it’s too late to secure an invitation, but one can e-mail the promoter to try.

Friday Marion Classic Criterium USCF criterium Marion, Ind. Distance from Chicago: 3.5 hours

Saturday Grayslake Cycling Classic USCF criterium Grayslake, Ill. Distance from Chicago: 1 hour

Marion Classic Criterium USCF criterium Marion, Ind. Distance from Chicago: 3.5 hours

Sunday Glencoe Grand Prix USCF criterium Glencoe, Ill. Distance from Chicago: .5 hours