This Weekend: Return of Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge

Cycling fans will enjoy a new spin added to the fifth Annual Global Imports Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge to be held on Sunday. In addition to hosting the Finale of the Southeast Crits Series, “Speed Week,” the Challenge also makes room for the arrival of the Sandy Springs Food And Wine Classic, providing spectators with a sampling of 25 Sandy Springs restaurant favorites.

The events will be held at 6075 Sandy Springs Circle.   

“The two events pair well together," said event organizer and City Councilwoman Dianne Fries, in a stateemnt. "The pro cyclists race around and around a block area with spectators watching along the .6 mile course. Onlookers now have the opportunity to sample and sip the best of food and wine from local restaurants. It’s a full day of action and great food for the entire family.”

The Global Imports Cycling Challenge caps nine days of intense racing taking place in seven southeast cities beginning in Athens, Ga and culminating in Sandy Springs. The top men’s and women’s professional elite teams are competing for $150,000 in prizes. The local course has earned the city the nickname, “Mount Sandy Springs,” for the hill that peaks at the start and finish line on Sandy Springs Circle.

The Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge started in 2008.

“As part of the National Criterium Calendar, the race attracts higher level riders,” added Gene Dixon, an event director for Swagger.us which is the series producer for Speed Week. “Bike racing is engaging, and the Sandy Springs finale is exciting; however, the more things that are going on, the more of an experience it becomes. The addition of the food and wine event elevates the entire experience.”

There is no admission fee to attend the day’s activities. Food and wine sampling tickets will be sold at $1.00 per ticket with proceeds from the event benefitting Sandy Springs Police and Fire Departments.

In addition to the Global Imports Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge, the City will host the Northside Hospital Challenge Ride featuring 20-40-62 mile rides. 

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with the rides beginning at 8:30 a.m. The Sandy Springs Police and Fire Departments square off in a friendly cycling competition at 3:30 p.m.