Chevron Grand Prix faster with age

Manhattan Beach Grand Prix cyclists enter the final turn at Ardmore and 15th Street in Manhattan Beach. Photo

Manhattan Beach Grand Prix cyclists enter the final turn at Ardmore and 15th Street in Manhattan Beach. Photo

The Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix is one of the nation’s longest running bike races. It was founded by local cycling legend Ted Ernst in 1952. This year’s 54th running of the race takes place Sunday, June 7.

The course is considered one of the more technical courses on the USA Cycling National Criterium Calendar (NCC). The 1.3-mile course, which starts in front of Live Oak Park, is shaped like a bent paperclip. It runs north on Valley Drive to Pacific Avenue and south on Ardmore Avenue back to 15th Street.

Approximately 440 racers participated and thousands of spectators attended last year’s event, highlighted by NCC Men Pro 1 race winner Ken Hanson of the UnitedHealthCare team. Erica Allar repeated in the Women NCC 1-2 race.

The Men’s Masters Races have expanded this year to include Men’s 40+, Men’s 50+ and the Men’s 55/60+, which will kick off the day’s competition at 7 a.m.

“With the addition of the always fast and competitive Men’s 55/60+ race, this year we offer a full day of great racing with a race for just about everyone, including kids,” said spokesperson Alysha Webb. “The course is right in the middle of Manhattan Beach, so beach goers and shoppers have the opportunity to stop by and watch some great cycling.”

The popular Kid’s Races begin at 3:35 p.m. The future generation of cyclists, ages 2-15, receive T-shirts and medals. Entry is $5 per child.

The Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix is co-sponsored by the South Bay Wheelmen and the South Bay Wheelmen Foundation and includes a vintage bicycle exhibit. Sponsorship for individual races is still available.

mbgp.com or contact Alysha Webb, alyshawebb@yahoo.com.

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