Banbridge Crit

Banbridge CC are delighted to be in a position to see the return of the Banbridge Criterium for 2022 on Friday 13^th May. Unfortunately with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic we have not held this event since June 2019, so to have it back on the streets of Banbridge streets will be a welcome sight.

Following the success of the event in previous years, including 2019 when it hosted the Ulster Championships and 2016 with the Irish National Championships, the club have confirmed that the event will use the same popular fully closed 1km circuit, starting and finishing on Banbridge town’s main high street – Newry St – keeping the fast paced action of crit racing in the accessible town centre where it belongs.

The main feature race will cater for A1 and A2 category riders.  Starting at 20:00 and lasting just over 50 minutes it will feature 2 hot-spot prime laps at approx. 15 and 30 minutes into the race.

The support race will cater for A3 category riders, however A2-A3 level women will also be welcome. This race will start at 19:00 and last 35 minutes, featuring a single hot spot prime lap at approx. 15 into the race.

Pre-entry to the event will open on Monday 2^nd May via the Cycling Ireland’s EventMaster website. Both races will be limited to 60 riders with pre-entry closing on Wednesday 11^th May, or once all places have been filled.

Always a very popular event, early entry is advised for all riders. A budget has been reserved to accommodate prizes for the first 6 riders overall in both races, with hot spot prime laps and unplaced rider prizes also available.

While at first glance the circuit may look flat and relatively straight forward, a sharp descent, fast and tight corners, and a drag onto the start/finishing straight that will sap the legs has proven to provide both competitors and spectators some exciting racing over the years.  A full pit area is available on the circuit for team cars and/or gazebos.

Please note a rider check-in is required for both races and will open at 18:00 Ground Espresso Bar on Newry St, closing 15 mins sharp before each race. 

Traffic diversions and road closures will be in place from 17:30 to accommodate the event so extra time should be allowed for travel, parking, etc.