Maple Hills Race for Wishes is an annual staple in Michigan road racing and this year is designated as the State Championship Road Race. It is held on the beautiful rolling terrain in Lawton, Michigan on Sunday, July 10. Maple Hills will offer a full day of racing with 13 separate races on tap including some new options for the women.
Despite a great turnout every year, women are still drastically underrepresented at cycling events throughout the state and country. This year Maple Hills has added a new Masters Women’s Race for women 40 and over to expand the options for female racers. Although several Masters races are staples of mens cycling, this is a unique opportunity for women to compete in a Masters only field in a 35 mile race and even get the chance to win money! The Masters race is open to any category racer.
Another change for this year, Category 4 racers will have the option of racing in the Category 1/2/3/4 race or the Beginner Category 4 only race. Allowing Category 4 women the chance to choose between races will allow the opportunity to compete in non-intimidating beginner’s field in a 35 mile race. It will also give up and coming Cat 4 racers the chance to compete with some of the best riders in the state in the 1/2/3/4 race over 52.5 miles. A current USA Cycling license is required to compete and Category 4 racers can purchase a one day license for $10.
The Masters women will only be a separate field if there are at least 10 participants registered by July 8 so tell your cycling friends and sign up now!
More information and registration can be found on the Maple Hills Race for Wishes website. Details about each race and the schedule can be found on the race flyer.
You can also find updates on the Maple Hills Race for Wishes Facebook page.
Hope to see some new faces in Lawton on July 10!