So, you’re ready for your first CRCA race—congratulations! Racing in Central Park is an exciting and rewarding experience, and the Century Road Club Association (CRCA) is here to help you get started. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking to transition into racing or brand new to competitive riding, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a smooth and successful first race.
Pre-Race Preparation
Membership & Licensing
To race with CRCA, you must be a club member. We encourage everyone interested in Central Park racing to join the club—not only does it grant access to our race series, but it also includes benefits like Skills Sessions and New Racer Clinics.
Additionally, you’ll need:
✅ A USA Cycling (USAC) racing license (active and up to date)
✅ A CRCA race number and timing chip (assigned to you at number pick-up)
Required Equipment
Before heading to the start line, make sure you have the following:
🚴 A road bike equipped with clipless pedals
🔢 Your CRCA number and timing chip
🦺 A helmet (mandatory)
👕 A CRCA jersey (or, if unaffiliated with a team, a CRCA armband)
Rules & Guidelines
The most important rule for racing in Central Park? Stay out of the recreation lane! This is crucial for safety and to ensure we can continue hosting races in the park.
Training & Pre-Race Prep
A few days before your race, take the time to:
✔️ Attend a beginner skills session with Tara Parsons for race tips and group riding practice.
✔️ Check that your bike is in good working order—tires, brakes, and drivetrain should all be race-ready.
✔️ Bring good vibes—racing is competitive, but it’s also about having fun and improving!
Race Day Logistics
Arrival & Sign-In
📍 Location: All CRCA races take place in Central Park, and we meet at the Boathouse Parking Lot.
⏰ Timing: Our races start early in the morning. Check the CRCA website or race-day communications for the exact time.
📝 Sign-In: We highly recommend attending an early-season Number Pick-Up event to get your race number and timing chip ahead of time. If you don’t, you can still pick them up before the race.
Warm-Up & Safety Checks
🚴 Warm-Up: The Central Park Drive is open for warming up before the race. Use this time to get your legs moving and mentally prepare.
⚠️ Safety Checks: There are no mandatory safety checks, but it’s always a good idea to double-check your equipment before heading to the start line.
The Race Itself
Start Line & Race Format
At the start line, racers are grouped into fields based on category:
Women’s Field
Women’s Development (Dev) Field
Men’s A, B, and C Fields
Be sure to line up with your correct group and listen for last-minute announcements from the race officials.
What to Expect
🚀 The Start: The race will usually begin with a slow rollout, though don’t be surprised if there’s an early attack—it’s all part of the fun!
🚴♂️ The Pack: Expect to be riding shoulder-to-shoulder with other racers. If you’re new to pack riding, focus on:
Holding a steady line
Moving predictably
Avoiding sudden braking
Tips for First-Time Racers
🏁 Positioning & Drafting: Stay efficient by positioning yourself smartly in the pack and using drafting to conserve energy.
🔄 Tactics & Strategy: Learning when to attack, chase, or conserve energy comes with experience. For your first race, focus on getting comfortable in the group.
💪 Don't Give Up: Even if you get dropped early, keep riding—anything can happen in a race!
Post-Race & Next Steps
Finish Line & Podium
Once you cross the finish line, head back to the Boathouse parking lot for podium presentations and to celebrate with your fellow racers.
Reviewing Your Performance
📢 Chat with other racers—getting different perspectives can help you learn and improve.
📊 Analyze your ride—if you use a bike computer, review your pacing, effort, and positioning.
Common Mistakes (and Why They’re OK!)
🚨 Going too hard too soon—Pacing is a skill that takes time to develop.
🚴 Not staying with the pack—Each race builds confidence and experience.
❌ Overthinking tactics—For now, just focus on riding smoothly and safely in a group.
Getting More Involved in CRCA
The best way to grow as a racer is to connect with others in the club. Join CRCA training sessions, talk to riders on teams, and keep showing up to races. The more you race, the more fun it gets!
Final Thoughts
Your first CRCA race is just the beginning of an exciting journey in road racing. Whether you're aiming for the podium or just testing the waters, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience and keep learning. See you at the start line!
