Chicago Criterium
Spectators will have a unique opportunity to experience one of cycling's most exciting racing events from several route locations including the grandstand at the start/finish area located on Columbus Drive in front of Buckingham Fountain (Columbus and Balbo). They'll also be able to enjoy a sports expo, sponsor booths and vendors inside Grant Park. In either case, the front and back course announcer will make sure spectators don't miss a beat.
The Chicago Criterium series of races will captivate spectators with its fast paced straight-aways and tight 90-degree turns in the heart of Grant Park. A criterium or "crit" is a cycling race held in a closed circuit loop and is approximately 1.1 miles in length. The high speed left turn action begins on Columbus Drive heading north to East Jackson Boulevard, south on Michigan Avenue, east on Balbo Avenue, then back to Columbus Drive.