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!