The Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix, which celebrates its 55th year on Sunday, Aug. 7, is considered one of the more “technical” courses on the USA Cycling National Criterium Calendar (NCC). The 1.3-mile course, in front of Live Oak Park, is shaped like a bent paperclip. It runs north on Valley to Pacific and south on Ardmore to 15th Street.
“We’ve added a Junior race this year with generous cash prizes,” race director Greg Aden said.” We’ve also moved the kids races to a more spectator/family-friendly time, at noon.”.
Competition begins at 7 a.m. with the 55/60+ division followed by the Women’s’ Category 3-4, 40+ 1-3, 50+ 1-4, Men’s Cat 2, NCC Women’s 1-2, NCC Men’s 1, Cat 3 and Cat 4.
Australia’s Hilton Clarke and Samantha Schneider, of Wisconsin, won the men’s and women’s pro races in 2015, each taking home $2,520 in prize money.
The Manhattan Beach Grand Prix is co-sponsored by the South Bay Wheelmen and the South Bay Wheelmen Foundation and includes a vintage bicycle display.
“The MB Grand Prix is a great community event that brings out the best of the best Southern California racers to compete on a challenging course with the beautiful backdrop of the city of Manhattan Beach, said South Bay Wheelmen rider Robert Macpherson. “This is a great opportunity for South Bay Wheelmen to give back to the city we ride and to the racers we ride with for a fun day racing and entertainment “
Sponsorship for individual races is still available. Mbgp.com
