"I will be racing in support of my teammates. I have participated every year since 2005," said West Chester native Scott Zwizanski, who will be riding with the UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling team.
For cyclists like Kristine Church, it's about community spirit. "I think I win the award for living the closest to the racecourse," she jokes.
"I am looking forward to riding through my neighborhood of Manayunk and seeing all my neighbors, friends, and family along the racecourse!" said Church, who will be riding for her third year with team Human Zoom Cycling.
This year's event will mark the 27th running of the only UCI Hors Category classic road race in the United States. The event's companion race, the Liberty Classic, will mark its 18th anniversary and feature some of the world's top women's teams.
"This is going to be my 11th time in a row competing in the Liberty Classic. It is my favorite race in the world, especially up Manayunk Wall and Lemon Hill," said Seattle resident Jo Kiesanowski, of Team TIBCO/To the Top from New Zealand.
A full weekend of activities is planned, including amateur time trials at 7 a.m. Saturday. Open to the public, this trial uses an eight-mile, professionally timed course that will begin at the foot of the Art Museum. It takes riders along scenic West River Drive and back, providing cyclists of all levels and ages a chance to log their best time. Number pickup begins at 6 a.m.; first rider off at 7 a.m. Registration in advance only.
From noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday is the Philadelphia Cycling, Health & Fitness Expo, located course-side on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Visitors can check out the latest in bikes and cycling gear and explore the region's health, wellness, and fitness resources.
