Course Descriptions

Team Time Trial (Saturday): A 10–15 mile clockwise loop starting on Anderson heading west, turning north on Old 37, and finishing southeast on Forest Road. Collegiate teams must use "Merckx Style" (no TT equipment), while domestic teams may use full TT setups.
Road Race (Saturday): A challenging 14-mile loop through the scenic Morgan-Monroe State Forest. The route features Bean Blossom Hill, a 1.4-mile climb with an average 4% gradient that peaks at a punishing 14%.
Criterium (Sunday): A new 0.5-mile counterclockwise loop in the Downtown Bloomington Trades District. It features flowy turns and a challenging uphill finish, departing from the traditional flat crit course.

Event Highlights

Inaugural Trades District Crit: The criterium is now in downtown Bloomington, creating a festival atmosphere with live music, food trucks, and local vendors.
Family Fun Ride: A free, one-lap event during the Sunday Criterium for families and children to experience a closed race course.
Collegiate & Domestic Scoring: While both groups race together, collegiate results are separated for Mid-West Collegiate Cycling Conference (MWCCC) points.
Volunteer Discounts: Participants can receive a 50% discount on race registration by signing up for a volunteer slot via the Bloomington Volunteer Network.

Participant Details

Registration: Open online until the Friday before the event.
Neutral Support: Typically provided by local shops like Bloomington Bicycles to assist with mechanical issues on both days.
Rules & Safety: The "Yellow Line Rule" is strictly enforced during road races. Riders must have valid USAC licenses, and one-day licenses are often available for lower categories.

A Virtual Tour of the Candy Stripe Classic Criterium

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the two events included in the Candy Stripe Classic omnium?

The Candy Stripe Classic features a challenging rural road race combined with a fast, urban criterium held over a two-day weekend. Together, these events form a competitive omnium format that tests your abilities across different road racing disciplines.

Are there different race categories for collegiate and domestic riders?

Yes - this event welcomes both elite collegiate racers and domestic competitors. Check the event website for the latest details on specific race categories, field sizes, and category breakdowns for both days.

What time trial equipment rules apply to my team?

Collegiate teams must compete in "Merckx Style" format, meaning no TT-specific equipment is permitted - this keeps the competition focused on fitness and teamwork. Domestic teams may use full TT setups including aero bars and specialized time trial bikes. Check the event website to confirm your team classification.

What should spectators know about watching the criterium?

The criterium takes place in an urban setting in Bloomington, making it highly spectator-friendly with multiple viewing areas throughout the course. You'll get to see riders pass frequently, watch for sprint points, and experience the intensity of fast-paced racing up close.

What's the terrain like on the Saturday road race course?

The Saturday road race is a 10-15 mile rural loop that starts on Anderson heading west, turns north on Old 37, and finishes southeast on Forest Road. The route combines rolling Southern Indiana terrain - expect varied elevation and mixed road conditions typical of rural Midwest cycling.

When should I arrive on race day, and where can I park?

Check the event website for specific parking and arrival instructions closer to race day. The Bloomington location offers various parking options, and organizers will provide detailed logistics for both the Saturday road race start and the Sunday criterium in town.

How are omnium winners determined across the two-day event?

Omnium scoring combines results from both the Saturday road race and Sunday criterium - your placement in each event contributes to your overall omnium standings. This format rewards versatility and consistent strong performances across different race types, with podium ceremonies celebrating the top finishers in each category.

The Cycling Club at Indiana University

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