Two Premier Criterium Events Highlight
Southern California Cycling Weekend
Southern California’s summer racing calendar continues with an exciting weekend of fast-paced criterium action as two standout events take center stage. Cyclists and fans can enjoy the inaugural Azusa Twilight Race on Route 66 Criterium on Saturday, July 11, followed by the historic 63rd Annual Manhattan Beach Grand Prix – California State Criterium Championship on Sunday, July 12.
Both events promise high-speed racing, family-friendly entertainment, and opportunities to experience some of the region’s best cycling competition.
Inaugural Azusa Twilight Race on Route 66 Brings Evening Racing to Downtown Azusa
Following a successful debut in Glendora with the Glendora Twilight Criterium, the excitement of twilight racing rolls west as the inaugural Azusa Twilight Race on Route 66 Criterium takes over downtown Azusa on Saturday, July 11.
Produced by Go Fast-Andiamo, the spectator-friendly cycling event will bring elite racers, local talent, and cycling enthusiasts together for an evening of high-speed competition on a closed-loop downtown course inspired by the spirit of historic Route 66.
Building on the momentum and community support generated in Glendora, the new Azusa event aims to create an electric atmosphere for residents, local businesses, and cycling fans while celebrating fitness, community engagement, and the growing popularity of criterium racing throughout Southern California.
Twilight criteriums are known for their exciting atmosphere, combining technical cornering, fast-paced racing, and close-up spectator viewing. Racing under the evening sky creates an energetic festival environment, making the event appealing for both seasoned cycling fans and first-time spectators.
Manhattan Beach Grand Prix Crowns California State Champions
On Sunday, July 12, attention shifts to the South Bay as the 63rd Annual Manhattan Beach Grand Prix returns adjacent to Live Oak Park in Manhattan Beach.
One of California’s longest-running cycling races, the Manhattan Beach Grand Prix serves as the California State Criterium Championship, featuring championship competition across multiple categories and age groups. Elite men’s and women’s racers from California and beyond will compete for coveted state championship jerseys while tackling one of the state’s most respected criterium courses.
Known for its fast racing, technical corners, and enthusiastic crowds, the Manhattan Beach Grand Prix has become a summer tradition for both racers and spectators. The event also includes community activities such as kids’ races, the Manhattan Mile run, vendor booths, exhibitors, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day.
A Weekend Celebration of Southern California Cycling
Together, the Azusa Twilight Race and Manhattan Beach Grand Prix showcase the strength of Southern California’s cycling community. From a brand-new downtown twilight criterium to one of the nation’s most established races, the weekend offers something for everyone—from elite competition and aspiring racers to families and cycling enthusiasts looking to experience the excitement of bicycle racing.
Whether cheering from the barriers in downtown Azusa on Saturday evening or spending Sunday watching California’s top riders compete for state championship honors in Manhattan Beach, this weekend promises two memorable days of racing.
Weekend Event Schedule – Race and Spectate
Saturday, July 11 – Azusa Twilight Race on Route 66 Criterium
- Downtown Azusa
- Evening twilight racing
- Produced by Go Fast-Andiamo
Sunday, July 12 -63rd Annual Manhattan Beach Grand Prix
- Live Oak Park, Manhattan Beach
- California State Criterium Championships
- Elite racing, amateur categories, kids’ races, family activities, vendors, and the Manhattan Mile.
