MCS announces venues
2008
The Midwest Cycling Series, an 11-day, 10-race evolution of the formerly two-day Wisconsin Cycling Series, this morning announced four of the Wisconsin venues for its June 10-28 event: Fond du Lac, Sheboygan, Manitowoc and the fabled Downer Avenue course in Milwaukee. All four have been locations for Superweek races, and many consider Downer Avenue to be Superweek’s crown jewel.
The MCS also announced that Jack Hirt (Velo Trocadero) will be executive director.
The implications are unclear. Does this preclude the sites from being Superweek races, too? And will the Midwest Cycling Series expand to Illinois?
What’s not unclear is whether this is a shot across Superweek’s bow. Not only is it a shot across the bow, but it’s a grappling hook over the rail and a smart rap on the captain’s quarters. Indeed, take a look at the five bullet points the MCS promises riders: 1. Full range of fields; 2. Large purses; 3. Affordable entries; 4. On-time races; 5. Full support of the Wisconsin Cycling Association and USAC. Whether MCS can follow through on these promises remains to be seen, but these points seem crafted to address complaints riders have had with Superweek.
Twice in the past hour people have e-mailed me to tell me they’d heard that Superweek was no more. This is the first I’ve heard that rumor and my inclination is to discount it. Superweek certainly faced some difficulties in 2008, but in August, Breakaway Event Productions had already announced 2009 dates that included one extra day of racing.
I’ve solicited more information from both series. I’ll update this post as there is more information to report.
UPDATE: Breakaway Event Productions’ Andy Garrison writes to confirm that Superweek is still on for 2009, and that Downer Avenue is still scheduled for Saturday, July 25. He points out that the other Wisconsin sites named today haven’t been part of Superweek for several years. He says Superweek has focused on sites closer to Milwaukee and Chicago that he says draw more riders and spectators.
“We will continue to provide the highest quality racing as in the past,” Garrison says. “We will continue to improve things and make them better. We wish the Midwest races the best, and feel that if they do well it will enhance cycling for all of us.”
Dec 4
2008
6:40 pm
thesuperrookie (Grumpy's/LGR)
Since when is the Midwest strictly Wisconsin? Bring some races to Minnesota.