Format Change for 2010 Superweek

The new schedule hasn't quite been formalized for the 42nd running of Superweek, but for good reason according to long time race promoter Otto Wenz Jr. "We've shortened the schedule down to 9 days, but added the thrill of making it a true timed stage race including a time trial and a point to point race." "It's been quite an undertaking", he added, "but I guarantee it will be worth the wait."

The USA Cycling Hall of Fame member Wenz continued: " In addition to the  Downer Avenue Criterium and the Holy Hill road race, there will be a 40k individual time trial held just north of Milwaukee on the old Ulao / Lakefield course which was used in the 1975 Nationals, and a point to point race starting from South Shore Park in Bay View and ending on the velodrome in Northbrook, IL. We feel this is an important addition to the series and the communities we are working with are behind it 100%."

According to Wenz, the 70.2 mile Milwaukee to Chicago race was last held in 1972 and won by former Olympian John Howard who has agreed to be the honorary starter after the 3 mile neutral roll out. "Once we get onto HWY 31, near Carrolville, the riders will be released and allowed to race as usual. The race will continue past Racine and Kenosha and include a time bonus sprint at the state line, before continuing down into Illinois through Waukegan, Lake Bluff, ending finally with a lap on the Northbrook Velodrome. The race will be using chip timing for keeping track of the overall classification and the lead pace cars will be equipped with GPS units so that spectators in Northbrook can follow the progression of the race on a large projection TV screen." Wenz also alluded to the possibility that several smaller Pro teams from Italy and Belgium are sending squads over who have had "considerable experience in these sort of events" and that cut off times will be strictly enforced, so riders "better come prepared". Local TV media has shown some interest in providing at least partial, time delayed coverage of this historic event, perhaps providing some helicopter footage if weather conditions allow. 

In conclusion he added: "This new format for the 42nd Annual Superweek will put us back on the map in the eyes of USA Cycling and we hope that the riders will enjoy it as well."