This morning I spoke with Anne Davis with the Mayor’s Office of Special Events. She and the rest of City Hall are swamped with the upcoming Taste of Chicago and other festivals, so there are still many details to be worked out regarding next year’s Chicago Criterium. However, she did confirm that there will be amateur racing. How long and in which categories will depend on how long the city allows streets to be closed. Keep in mind that even with streets shut down all day, promoters must either cut races extremely short (Elk Grove, Downers Grove) or limit the number of fields (Superweek).

She couldn’t release the course other than to say that it will be in Grant Park, but from what another source as told me, I can tell you it’s going to be challenging, fun and picturesque. (UPDATE: I defied doctor’s orders and rode it this morning, my first ride in almost a month. It’s even better in person than on paper. This could be the best race Chicago has seen since Jane Byrne beat Michael Bilandic.)

Davis is as excited about the race as we are, and she says the city’s goal is to make it an annual event and a national draw. Here’s hoping it lasts longer than previous efforts, both here and elsewhere.