In 2008 Burnham Racing initiated the concept of racing bicycles on an automotive course. Two years later we have two days of such training criteriums to enjoy.

Saturday we return to Blackhawk Farms Raceway in South Beloit. Sunday the South Chicago Wheelmen welcome us to the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, a course it first tested on a Tuesday night last summer. Together the races form C.O.U.G.A.R.

— Chicagoland Omnium Using Great Area Racetracks —

and modest cash prizes go to the overall top three riders in each category (except for 5’s and 4/5’s).

Both courses are flat with gentle, beginner-friendly turns. Take note of any robust wind, as it will make a big difference toward breaking away and the timing of your sprint.

Elsewhere, Kenosha Velosport holds its series finale in Pleasant Prairie on Sunday, and I know a few of you will be heading to Michigan on Saturday for Barry-Roubaix, a difficult, hilly mix of on- and off-road terrain.

Meanwhile, I leave this afternoon for 10 days in Belgium. What better way to simulate the conditions of Hillsboro-Roubaix?

In my absence I have some posts scheduled to pop up on race days, which I hope you will use to link to your reports and photos.

Saturday Spring Super Criterium USAC criterium South Beloit, Ill. Distance from Chicago: 1 hour 2 hours

Barry-Roubaix Gravel Road Race USAC road race Middleville, Mich. Distance from Chicago: 3 hours

Sunday SCW Spring Criterium USAC criterium Joliet, Ill. Distance from Chicago: 1 hour

Kenosha Velosport Spring Training Series ABR criterium Pleasant Prairie, Wis. Distance from Chicago: 1 hour