The 20th annual Spartanburg Criterium—better known as “The Crit”—brought serious energy to downtown Spartanburg on Friday night. Crowds packed the streets, cowbells rang nonstop, and more than 600 cyclists raced through tight turns and sections in one of the most exciting nights of Speed Week. With high-speed action, intense competition and a stadium-like atmosphere, the Criterium once again proved why it’s one of the city’s most anticipated events of the year.
Racers took on the four-corner course with grit, strategy and endurance. Spectators, many of them waving signs and decked out in team colors, lined the sidewalks to cheer every lap. Even without the Spring Fling festival, which was canceled due to construction, downtown was buzzing.
Sydney Okolichany (9) spent her Friday night downtown during the event.
“I liked hanging out in the tents and watching the race with friends,” Okolichany said.
More than 100 local businesses and groups set up tailgate tents along the route, turning the event into a celebration of speed, community and local pride. Restaurants and shops saw extra traffic before and after the race, giving downtown Spartanburg a solid boost. Subaru Spartanburg sponsored pace cars and motorcycle officials monitored the course to keep things safe and fair. Crashes are a regular part of the sport, but thanks to neutral laps, injured riders could be helped before the race kicked back into high gear. The men’s and women’s pro races were especially intense. Teams drafted, blocked and worked together to position their sprinters for a strong finish. In the final laps, the crowd roared as the top riders launched their final sprints toward the finish line.
The event also raised money for PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well., a Spartanburg nonprofit focused on improving health and wellness in the community. PAL works to promote active living, healthy eating and health equity throughout the county.
Finn McEnroe (10) cheered on his friends while they raced to victory Friday night.“Although it was rainy and wet, it was really fun watching my friends Andy Ratterree (12)”.
Whether you’re into cycling or just love a good time downtown, the Spartanburg Criterium is a can’t-miss event. It’s fast, fun and full of heart—and it’s clear the community is already looking forward to next year’s race.
