The Valley Preferred Cycling Center

The first shot of the 2012 racing season gets fired this Saturday at noon when the Masters & Rookies riders take to the track for their season-opening affair. The series has a new look for the 2012 season, as First Niagara has stepped up as a presenting sponsor. From here on out, the series will read First Niagara Masters & Rookies Race Series.

“Bringing on a partner such as First Niagara really says a lot about our Masters & Rookies racing,” said Marty Nothstein, executive director of Valley Preferred Cycling Center. “This Saturday race series produces a great entertainment value for fans, and attracts a wide range of competitive cyclists across a range of ages, skill levels and geographic areas. We’re excited to have First Niagara along for the ride.”

Even though there’s a new name, the heart of the series is still the same. It’s always been said that this is the opportunity for our newest competitors and our veteran warriors to take center stage at Valley Preferred Cycling Center. The combination of the energetic and the wily makes for some great action on the 333-meter concrete crater.

So, who are these racers? Well, here’s a top-line view of qualifying riders. USAC Categories are Cat 3/4 Women, Cat 5 Men, Cat 4 Men, Cat 1-4 Masters (age 30+), and Juniors race age 10-14.

This Saturday’s event is the first in a 17-week stretch that runs to September 15.

Registration opens at 10:00 a.m. $15 entry fee, and $5 number fee. Racing begins at 12:00 p.m.

Photo by Anthony Skorochod of Cycling Captured