Improve Your Cycling Skills with CRCA Training 🚴‍♂️🔥

Want to become a faster, smarter, and more confident cyclist? The Century Road Club Association (CRCA) offers expert coaching and structured training programs to help you level up your skills—whether you're a new racer or an experienced competitor.

With a team of top-tier coaches and free training sessions included with membership, CRCA provides everything you need to sharpen your race tactics, master group riding, and build speed and endurance.

Meet the CRCA Coaches 👏

CRCA is proud to have some of the best cycling coaches in New York City, helping riders of all levels refine their technique, improve their fitness, and achieve their racing goals.

🏅 Tara Parsons – Skills & Racing Development

📍 CRCA Coach since 2012
🚴‍♀️ Works with new racers to develop strong fundamentals
💡 Focuses on technique, safety, and skill-building
🔗 Also partners with Rapha to promote women’s cycling

Tara’s approach is all about building confidence, whether you’re learning to ride in a pack or fine-tuning your sprint.

🌎 Ann Marie Miller – Race Strategy & Performance

📍 4x UCI World Masters’ Road Cycling Champion
🚴‍♂️ Former Category 1 racer with years of coaching experience
💡 Focuses on race tactics, climbing, and endurance training

Ann Marie developed her racing skills through CRCA, and now she’s helping the next generation become stronger, smarter racers.

CRCA Training Programs: What’s Included? 🚀

CRCA coaching sessions are FREE for members and cover everything from beginner skills to advanced race tactics.

✅ New Racer Clinics – Start Strong

🔹 Learn the fundamentals of group riding, bike handling, and race etiquette
🔹 Perfect for first-time racers or those looking to refine their skills
🔹 Build confidence and safety awareness before your first race

✅ Race Skills & Strategy Sessions – Take It to the Next Level

🚴 Sprint Training – Improve explosive power and sprint positioning
🚴 Cornering & Criterium Skills – Learn to hold speed and take turns smoothly
🚴 Climbing Sessions – Master power efficiency and pacing on hills
🚴 Time Trial & Breakaway Tactics – Develop aerodynamics, pacing, and solo efforts

✅ Race Simulation & Tactics Workshops – Prepare for Real-World Racing

🏁 Race strategy – Learn how to read the race, position yourself, and react to attacks
🏁 Group dynamics – Understand drafting, pack positioning, and when to make a move
🏁 Winning mindset – Build mental toughness for race-day success

💡 Bonus Tip: Many top racers attend these sessions every year—even seasoned riders continue refining their skills!

Success Stories: CRCA Coaching Works! 🏆

🚀 Kristen Faulkner started her racing career in a CRCA skills clinic—and went on to become a pro cyclist, racing at the highest level!

🚀 Many CRCA riders progress from beginner-friendly clinics to podium finishes in Central Park races, proving that dedicated coaching makes a difference.

If you’re looking to sharpen your skills, gain confidence, and race smarter, our training programs will help you get there!

Ready to Improve? Join CRCA Today! 💪🚴‍♂️

📢 CRCA coaching is included with your membership—no extra cost, just expert training to help you ride better and race smarter.

🔗 Check Out the Full Coaching Schedule Here!

By joining CRCA, you get access to top-tier coaching, a structured training environment, and a supportive racing community. Whether you want to get faster, ride safer, or learn new race tactics, CRCA’s training programs give you the tools to succeed.

🎯 Train Smarter. Race Harder. Become a Member Here

Why Join CRCA? The Benefits of Membership

The Century Road Club Association (CRCA) is more than just a cycling club—it’s a community of racers, coaches, and enthusiasts dedicated to developing cycling talent and growing the sport in New York City. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just getting into racing, CRCA membership comes with exclusive perks that will help you improve, compete, and connect with other cyclists.

1. Access to Exclusive Racing Events

🚴 CRCA Club Race Series – Members gain entry to a 12-race series in Central Park, running from March through September. These member-only races provide a consistent, safe, and well-organized environment to develop racing skills and gain experience.

🚴 Unique Race Formats – CRCA races feature various formats, including scratch races, points races, and time trials, offering different tactical challenges to help riders build well-rounded racecraft.

2. Free Coaching & Skills Development

CRCA offers a season-long coaching program with structured training sessions led by experienced racers and coaches. Members have access to:

📈 Beginner & Advanced Skills Clinics – Learn everything from race tactics and pack riding skills to sprinting, cornering, and climbing techniques.

📈 Specialized Training Sessions – Improve in areas like breakaways, sprinting, criterium racing, and time trialing with dedicated coaching sessions.

📈 New Racer Clinics – Designed for beginners, these sessions provide hands-on training to help you feel comfortable and confident in a race setting.

3. A Supportive Community

🏁 Sub-Teams & Team Racing – CRCA members can join sub-teams, offering structured training, mentorship, and race-day support from teammates.

🏁 Social & Networking Events – Connect with fellow cyclists at group rides, post-race meetups, and club-organized events.

🏁 A Culture of Learning – The club fosters an inclusive and supportive atmosphere, where riders of all levels can share knowledge and experiences to help each other improve.

4. Volunteer & Leadership Opportunities

🔹 Marshaling & Race Support – Members contribute to the smooth operation of races by assisting as marshals, ensuring safety and fairness.

🔹 Event Organization & Mentorship – CRCA offers opportunities to get involved beyond racing, whether by helping with events, mentoring newer riders, or contributing to club initiatives.

5. Multiple Membership Options to Fit Your Goals

CRCA offers several membership levels designed to accommodate racers, volunteers, and supporters. Whether you’re looking for unlimited race access, coaching opportunities, or just a way to stay involved, there’s an option for you.

🚴 Full Membership – Includes access to all CRCA Club Races, coaching sessions, and team racing.
🚴 Associate Membership – Ideal for those who want to participate in coaching sessions and be part of the CRCA community without racing.
🚴 Junior Membership – Supports young riders by providing free coaching and race access to help develop the next generation of cyclists.

For more details on membership benefits and how to join, visit the CRCA Membership Page.

Join CRCA & Elevate Your Racing Experience!

CRCA isn’t just about racing—it’s about growth, learning, and community. Whether you’re looking to get faster, improve your racecraft, or meet fellow cyclists, membership offers the resources and opportunities to take your cycling to the next level.

🚴‍♂️ Train. Race. Improve. Join CRCA Today!

🔗 Become a Member Here

Race Day Jitters? Here's How to Stay Focused 🚴‍♀️💨

Feeling nervous before a race? You’re not alone! Even the most experienced cyclists get race day jitters—but the key is learning how to channel that energy into focus and performance.

The Century Road Club Association (CRCA) offers expert coaching and structured training sessions designed to help you manage pre-race nerves, improve your skills, and feel more confident on the start line.

1. Preparation is Key 🔑

🚴 Attend a CRCA Coaching Session – One of the best ways to feel prepared is to train with expert coaches. CRCA offers free coaching sessions covering race tactics, pack riding, sprinting, and more!

🚴 Know the Course – Familiarity breeds confidence. If possible, ride the Central Park course before race day to understand key sections like Harlem Hill, the rolling terrain on the West Side, and the final sprint locations.

🚴 Have a Race Day Routine – Create a pre-race checklist so you don’t forget anything. A solid routine helps you stay calm and focused instead of scrambling at the last minute.

💡 Pro Tip: CRCA's New Racer Clinics are perfect for beginners who want hands-on training in race scenarios.

2. Stay Calm & Focused 🧘‍♂️

✅ Breathe & Relax – Deep breathing exercises help lower heart rate and reduce stress before a race. Try inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds.

✅ Visualize Success – Close your eyes and picture yourself executing a strong race—good positioning, smooth turns, and a powerful sprint to the finish.

✅ Positive Self-Talk – Replace negative thoughts (“I’m not ready”) with confidence-building statements (“I’ve trained for this, I’m strong, I belong here”).

💡 Mindset Matters: Nervous energy is just excitement in disguise—use it to your advantage!

3. Focus on the Race, Not the Outcome 🎯

🏁 Break the race into sections – Instead of worrying about the entire race, focus on one segment at a time: the start, positioning, climbs, final sprint.

🏁 Stay Present – Avoid overthinking what might happen and instead focus on what’s happening right now—your breathing, cadence, and positioning.

🏁 Ride Smart, Not Stressed – Smooth, predictable riding is more important than being aggressive. Stay relaxed in the pack, hold your line, and conserve energy when needed.

💡 Pro Tip: Many riders find their nerves disappear once the race starts—the key is just making it to the start line!

4. Build Confidence Through CRCA Training 🚀

One of the best ways to calm nerves is to train in race-like conditions. CRCA offers FREE coaching sessions throughout the season to help you feel more confident and in control on race day.

CRCA Coaching Sessions Include:

📈 Beginner & Advanced Skills Clinics – Learn how to navigate a pack, handle corners, and stay safe in a race.

📈 Sprint & Climbing Sessions – Improve your power output, positioning, and sprint execution.

📈 Race Simulation & Tactics Workshops – Get real-world race experience in a controlled training environment.

💡 Take advantage of CRCA’s coaching—it’s one of the best membership perks!

5. Connect with the CRCA Community 🤝

🚴 Talk to Other Racers – You’re not the only one feeling pre-race nerves! Chat with teammates or other CRCA riders—you’ll find support, advice, and motivation.

🚴 Get Involved in Club Rides – The more you ride with a group, the more comfortable you’ll be in a race setting. CRCA sub-teams and training rides are a great way to build confidence and friendships.

🚴 Trust the Process – Every race is a learning experience. Even if things don’t go perfectly, you’ll gain valuable skills to improve for next time.

💡 Remember: Racing is about having fun, pushing yourself, and growing as a cyclist. Enjoy the ride!

Ready to Conquer Race Day? Join CRCA & Train Like a Pro! 🚴‍♂️🔥

The best way to eliminate pre-race nerves is to train, prepare, and surround yourself with a great cycling community—and CRCA has all the tools to help you succeed.

🔗 Check Out the CRCA Coaching Schedule & Sign Up for Training!

💪 Train Hard. Race Smart. Ride with Confidence. Join CRCA!

Central Park: Know the Course, Know the Benefits

A Guide to Racing in Central Park with CRCA

Racing in Central Park offers a unique and exhilarating experience for cyclists, combining the thrill of competition with the beauty of one of New York City's most iconic landmarks. The Century Road Club Association (CRCA) provides an exceptional platform for riders to engage in this vibrant racing scene.

In this guide, we'll delve into the specifics of the Central Park race course and highlight the benefits of CRCA membership.

The Central Park Race Course: A Detailed Overview

Central Park’s loop is approximately 6.1 miles (9.8 kilometers) long, featuring a mix of flats, rolling terrain, and challenging climbs. Understanding the course's layout is crucial for strategizing and achieving success on race day.

Key Sections of the Course

🏁 Cat's Paw Hill (Start/Finish Area)
📍 Near the Loeb Boathouse

• A short but steep incline often used as the starting and finishing point for races.

• Positioning here can be pivotal—riders who time their sprint correctly can gain an advantage.

🏁 Harlem Hill
📍 Northern section of the park, near 110th Street

• The most challenging climb on the loop with a steady gradient.

• A key section for breaking up the pack—staying controlled here can prevent early fatigue.

🏁 The Rolling Hills (West Side)
📍 West Drive, between 90th and 70th Streets

• A series of undulating hills that demand smart pacing and energy conservation.

• This section often sees attacks and breakaways forming.

🏁 The Flats (East Side)
📍 East Drive, from 72nd to 102nd Street

• A relatively fast and flat section, perfect for recovery or setting up for a move.

• Expect riders to use this stretch to conserve energy before Harlem Hill or the final sprint.

Final Sprint: Knowing the Finish Line

The finish line location varies depending on the race setup. Knowing where the race ends can make or break your sprint strategy:

🏆 Cat’s Paw Hill – A short, punchy uphill finish near the Loeb Boathouse. Riders who can maintain speed while surging up the incline will have an advantage.

🏆 Engineer’s Gate (90th St & 5th Ave) – A flatter, more gradual finish that rewards sustained speed and smart positioning. Wait too long, and you might get boxed in.

🏆 West 92nd Street – This finish comes after a series of rolling hills on the West Side. It’s perfect for riders with endurance who can power through undulating terrain before a strong kick to the line.

🏆 Tavern on the Green – A fast, tactical sprint near 67th Street on the West Side. Staying in the draft of other riders and launching at the right time is key to success.

Sprint Strategy Tips

🚴 Know the course – Be familiar with the approach to the finish.
🚴 Stay aware – Watch for early moves, but don’t go too soon.
🚴 Position wisely – Be near the front but not in the wind until the sprint is on.
🚴 Commit to the effort – When you go, go all in—hesitation can cost you a placing.

The Benefits of CRCA Membership

Joining the CRCA opens the door to a wealth of opportunities for both novice and experienced racers.

Exclusive Racing Opportunities

✅ Club Race Series – Members get access to a 12-race series held in Central Park from March through September.
✅ Skills Sessions & New Racer Clinics – Free coaching sessions designed to build bike handling, race tactics, and group riding confidence.

A Thriving Community

✅ Join a Team – CRCA members can join sub-teams within the club, creating a tight-knit racing network.
✅ Train & Learn – Meet experienced racers, learn from coaches, and grow as a cyclist.
✅ Volunteer & Give Back – Be part of marshaling, event organization, and mentorship programs.

Additional Perks

💰 Discounts – CRCA members enjoy exclusive deals from sponsors and bike shops.
📖 Resources – Access training plans, race-day strategies, and mentorship from seasoned riders.
🚴‍♂️ A Competitive, Supportive Environment – Whether you’re a beginner or experienced racer, CRCA provides a structured pathway for development.

Join CRCA & Elevate Your Racing Experience!

Racing in Central Park isn’t just about competition—it’s about community, learning, and growth. By knowing the course and becoming a CRCA member, you’ll have the tools, knowledge, and support to improve as a racer and make the most of every race.

🔗 Become a CRCA Member Today!

CRCA Meets w/ the Palisades Park Conservancy

CRCA Sub-Team To Be Determined has posted about a recent event members of the CRCA board (Tara Parsons - Rider Development, Mitchell Napolitano - Advocacy, Alex Klafehn former Open Racing) and sub team NYCC attended with the Palisades Park Conservancy (PPC). Check out there post below.