Support the August 8-10 Rochester Omnium

Yes, this is another cycling blurb.  The one-day Rochester Criterium has grown to become a three-day event.  The Rochester Omnium will be a really big deal for the community, big enough that the City has stepped up to be the main sponsor and has been joined by many of the area’s major businesses. What’s an Omnium?  In the cycling world, it’s just a fancy word for an event with multiple races that are scored independently of each other.  The Omnium will put Rochester on the map nationally and internationally.  It is one of the 15 events on the USA Cycling Pro Tour for 2008.  Rochester’s race is on the same list with the Tour of California, Tour of Georgia, Philadelphia International Championship and other internationally recognized races that even attract some of the top European teams.  The announced schedule is as follows: Friday, August 8  Time Trial Cyclists compete individually in "the race of truth" over a flat 4.0 mile course.  The Start and Finish is at the Port of Rochester. Saturday, August 9 Criterium Cyclists race many laps around a one-mile loop in Downtown Rochester.  Amateur categories start mid-afternoon with professionals finishing around 10:30 PM. Sunday, August 10 Road Race  Riders tackle a challenging 100-mile course starting in Honeoye and ending on a six-mile loop course around Genesee Valley and Highland Parks. Kudos are due to Scott Page and Full Moon Vista Bike & Sport for growing the event to this next level.  Now, just as the running community pitches in to ensure the success of our signature running events, it is time for us to help the cycling community ensure the success of this highly visible event. How You Can Help  Be a spectator.  All of the events are free so bring family and friends to see the show.  The twilight criterium is spectacular.  Show up for the road race or time trial if you can.    Even better, you can volunteer to help at one of the events.  There’s lots of information about the event at http://www.rochestercrit.com/.  Click on the Volunteer link at the top of the page to sign up to help.