Every year, the Century Road Club Association or CRCA – New York City’s largest bike racing club – offers a clinic specifically geared toward expanding the community of female racers. It is an event organized by women for women. This year, the Rockstar Games/Signature Cycles women’s racing team joined forces with the Radical Media racing team in running the event. There is an informational session component, where seasoned racers try to demystify the sport by speaking on topics ranging from nutrition to how to launch a successful attack. But, the biggest draw of the Clinic is the simulated race in Central Park. This is where participants, many of whom having never raced before, get a trial-by-fire introduction to the sport. It is an opportunity for novices to try racing in a semi-controlled and less intimidating environment. Many of our local female racers, myself included, caught the racing bug at the Clinic. Have you heard of Evelyn Stevens? If not, look her up. She’ll be competing in the London Olympics, and got her start at our Clinic!
