Glen Ellyn, IL – While it was previously announced that the Glen Ellyn venue of the Intelligentsia Cup p/b SRAM series would not return in 2017, local members of the community have since rallied to assume the mantle, ensuring the race will be back for its second year. The new name, the Tour of Lake Ellyn, will happen on Saturday, July 15 on the same challenging course around picturesque Lake Ellyn.
“We’re very excited to bring the bike race back to Glen Ellyn, which is being led by a community effort,” said Ben Raby, a former professional cyclist and member of the local organizing committee. “The Tour of Lake Ellyn will promote Glen Ellyn community and enjoyment of our great park. In collaboration with the park district and village staff we’ve been able to secure a unique and challenging course, giving spectators the opportunity to watch elite racers navigate the ups, downs and turns of the Lake Ellyn circuit.”
“Hosting the Tour of Lake Ellyn for the second year is an incredible opportunity for the Village,” said Village President Alex Demos. “We are excited to once again welcome racers, fans and spectators to the Village to enjoy this prestigious event. We encourage you to come for the race and stay to explore our award-winning restaurants, shops and parks.”
Racing will again happen all day long, ranging from amateur and age group categories to the marquee elite and professional men and women races. A change for this year is a two-lap Glen Ellyn Community Fun Ride where anyone with a bicycle and helmet are invited to ride the same course as the racers, in between the pro women and pro men events. A full schedule will be announced soon.
“I’ve always had a passion for cycling — Sunday mornings were spent with my dad watching the Tour de France which clued me into the sport of cycling,” said local organizing committee member Jim Burket. “Why not take the opportunity to leverage the great natural course around Lake Ellyn and partnership with the Intelligentsia Cup series to have an international bike race in my backyard?”
“The Glen Ellyn Park District is excited to again support the Tour of Lake Ellyn for its second year and looks forward to assisting the local community members who have assumed the responsibility of organizing and staging the event,” said David Harris. “With local leadership, the event will be even that much better, providing a unique opportunity for the bike racing community, a great spectator sport and social event while showcasing the historic and iconic Lake Ellyn Park along with the Village of Glen Ellyn.”
“As we pride ourselves on being a bicycle friendly community, we couldn’t be more proud to host this race again,” said Village Manager Mark Franz. “With exciting cycling terrain, we hope our historic Village will provide a scenic backdrop not only for excellent racing, but for the enjoyment of spectators, families and friends.”
The remainder of the series venues will be announced in the coming weeks, with new venues and courses added for the 2017 series.