Portland International Raceway (PIR) is usually filled with
racecars roaring around the track. On Monday nights in the summer, hundreds
of cyclists will take over PIR as Lakeside Bicycles Monday Night Races kicks
off its 12th season.

“Bicycle racing continues to grow at PIR, and we see new racers each year
trying it out,” said series organizers Jim Anderson, “We are adding clinics
for novice women who want to see what the sport is all about, in hopes of
seeing a growth in the women's fields. Also, with the addition of the track
being repaved, we expect our great bike racing venue to be packed with
racers this summer – right in Portland’s back yard”

The series has added clinics that will run on the 2nd Monday’s of the month,
and will focus on the basics of how to get started in racing. There will be
a brief intro talk prior to the race start, and followed by debriefing after
the race. Experienced women racers will lead this. This is a great way to
see what racing is all about, ask questions and meet other women that are
riding. Clinics will run approximately 30 minutes before the race and 30
minutes after the women’s race finishes.

All levels and abilities are welcomed and encouraged to attend: all that’s
required is a helmet, a road bike and a sense of adventure. Experienced
riders from local racing teams are on hand to provide guidance and answer
questions. There are separate races for novice masters men (aged 30+),
novice women, two categories for more experienced masters men, and an open
women category for women of any age and ability.

The course is the flat and wide 1.9-mile loop of Portland International
Raceway (I-5 Exit #306B). Featuring high-quality pavement for cycling. The
raceway circuit is closed to all car traffic for the Monday night bike
races.

Entry fee is only $13 for women and masters men, $5 for women under 18.
Racers who avoid traffic on I-5 by bike commuting, carpooling or taking MAX
to PIR receive $1 off entry, and race organizers will donate $1 to the
Bicycle Transportation Alliance, a local non-profit working to make Oregon
one of the best places in the world to ride a bike.

Top racers win gift certificates (from Lakeside Bicycles) nightly and for
the monthly series, but the emphasis is on learning, improving and getting a
great workout in a fun, sociable and exciting environment. Racing starts at
6:15pm on Monday nights May 5– August 25 (no racing July 21st). More
information at: www.racemondaynight.com