New Cycling Event Heading to Sacramento
Criterium will be held on Halloween weekend in California's state capitol
Posted On: September 17, 2021 By :Organizers have announced plans for the inaugural Into the Lion’s Den criterium race in downtown Sacramento, California, on October 30 with $100,000 in prize money as part of a community event that will also include a Halloween ride and bike expo.
The event will include an amateur open race as well as pro women’s and men’s races. Families will be able to spend the morning biking or walking the race loop with a panel of judges determining costume winners at the end.
“Sacramento is thrilled to welcome Into the Lion’s Den powered by SRAM athletes to our city,” said Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg. “Our community is passionate about cycling and our terrain, coupled with our California weather, makes Sacramento an ideal home for this race.”
The Pro criterium races will feature women’s and men’s professional teams competing for 70 minutes on the 1-kilometer course around the State Capitol grounds, with the Start/Finish line located on 11th Street and N Street. Race organizers are working in partnership with the Visit Sacramento Sports Commission.
“SRAM is excited to be the presenting partner of the inaugural Into the Lion’s Den powered by SRAM and to reward these great racers with the largest prize purse in U.S. crit racing history,” said SRAM Chief Executive Officer Ken Lousberg. “We can’t wait to watch the pro riders come down the home straightaway in front of the Capitol at close to 40 mph.”
Justin Williams, an elite cyclist and multiple-time U.S. national champion, is the founder of the event and started the L39ION of Los Angeles cycling program along with his brother, Cory. L39ION will be competing in both the women’s and men’s pro races.
“My vision has always been to make the sport of cycling great for everyone,” said Williams, rider-manager of the L39ION. “Into the Lion’s Den powered by SRAM will have something for everyone, from fast racing to fun family activities.”