The finish line of this year’s 100-mile Thompson Bucks County Classic professional cycling race is going to be an even more exciting place than usual.
That’s because this is the first year that the world-class race ends in New Hope, and the dramatic finish will include music, commentary, an award ceremony, and an appearance by the ever-popular Miss Pumpkin.
It all happens from 1:30-3 p.m. at North Main and West Randolph streets on Saturday, Sept. 13. Local politicos and community organizers are beating the bushes to encourage a big turnout and give the international roster of riders the warmest New Hope welcome possible.
A map of the race course and list of local traffic/parking restrictions are available here. The race runs from Doylestown, through Solebury, Buckingham, Plumstead, and Bedminster, and on to New Hope.
The Thompson Bucks County Classic includes a UCI Road Race, Women’s & Pro Criteriums, & Gran Fondo. The UCI-sanctioned professional International cycling event held in conjunction with the Doylestown Arts Festival. The weekend includes two professional races, a recreational ride for cycling enthusiasts and children’s races. Over 30,000 spectators will crowd the streets to enjoy everything the weekend has to offer – multiple bike races, artisans and crafters, live entertainment plus great food.
I hope all went well for the bike event today! Only one glitch for the New Hope residents who live in the neighborhood lining the bike route. There was no specific notice given to the residents as to road closure information. Usually, notices are put in peoples’ doors about a week before any event when Main St.(also a state road) is to be closed. There was no such warning this time. Is this a police matter? A municipal responsibility?
Some residents only found out third-hand, and that created a real inconvenience for some. Hopefully, this will be factored into in next year’s planning, as this event is quite exciting for all of the area communities!