The decline of road racing events. This is not a fresh topic for Kansas City (or many other regions).
There are many factors that influence the schedule and interest in competitive road cycling. We believe the two most critical factors are the size of the promoters pool and access to venues. Both are lacking in the KC area.
Add to the mix that rider’s interests have changed. Gravel events continue to populate the calendar and importantly gravel bike sales are more than 30% of road category bicycle sales, with continued growth predicted.
What road events will we likely have for 2024? The Spring Fling Series. This long running early season event is in it’s 30th year. Held at Clinton Lake State Park near Lawrence, it’s on the edge of the metro.
In addition to Spring Fling, the same promoter has produced the Perry Dam Race (2 weekends), the three John Brown Time Trials in Desoto, and five midweek Bike Stop Wednesday Night Worlds criteriums in Olathe.
The Bazaar road race is a mid April event and we anticipate it’s return. The same promoter has hosted the Kansas State Time Trial Championship in Hutchinson, KS for several years. Both of these events are some distance from the Kansas City metro. Participation in the State time trial has noticeably declined.
The Jesse Blancarte Time Trial is traditionally held at the end of May.
The bright spot for 2023 was the addition of Midcoast Racing and The Kansas Omnium. We expect this three event race to return.
But the concern remains, that road racing falls on the shoulders of four promoter groups. Racing days close in to the metro are few, classic events such the Tour of Kansas City and Gardner monthly time trials have disappeared. There are few licensed officials available to score USAC events. The Kansas Cycling Association is the local affiliate. You can find information and schedules (as well as volunteer opportunities) here.