THE CITY OF CYCLES

Christchurch has long been known as a cycle friendly city, the flat of the plains lends itself well to thin tyres and spokes. This proud two-wheeled history of ours will be brought centre stage with the Vantage Criterium National Championships cycling race.

As part of ChristchurchNZ’s BLOOM, this event will see Olympians and World Championship medallists take to the streets of Ōtautahi for a race to remember.

The Criterium will be held on a newly proposed circuit in the Christchurch city centre.

Making the central city their track, the cyclists will navigate multiple laps of a one-kilometre street circuit. There will be plenty of space for spectators to take in the action.

On a beautiful spring Sunday, set yourself up on a deck chair or simply stand and watch for a short while at Remembrance Park on Cambridge Terrace by the Bridge of Remembrance.

Given the tight and technical nature of the circuit and the close proximity of the crowds, Criterium racing will be fast, furious, and very exciting.

The competition will consist of a few elements. Before the keenly awaited men’s and women’s A Grade races, there will be an Under 17 race, Open B Grade, and Street Race events.

There is the option to register if you fancy yourself as a bit of a tarmac trailblazer, or simply if you want to set yourself a spring challenge. This is one of the many events on in the city during BLOOM, so be sure to be part of the action. Whether you’re cycling to the finish line or seated on the roadside – there is something for everyone.

The Vantage Criterium National Championships will take place on Sunday, 17 November and kicks off at 2.30pm with the non-championship street race. So, get to town early to get a good spot – maybe pop into the Christchurch Art Gallery, and end the day with a trip to the new jewel in the city’s crown, Riverside Market.

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