krit-er-ee-uhm ray-sing
noun
A type of bicycle race on a short circuit, usually under 1 mile in length.
Example usage: The local criterium racing circuit is a great place for cyclists to practice their sprints.
Most used in: North America and Europe.
Most used by: Competitive cyclists and those looking for a fast-paced race.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: Criterium, Road Race, Circuit Race, Kermesse,
What is Criterium Racing?
Criterium racing is a type of bicycle race held on a short course, usually 1-2 km in length. It is a fast-paced event that typically takes place on a closed circuit, such as a city street, with multiple laps of the same circuit. The start and finish line are usually located in the same place. The race usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, with the exact duration determined by the number of laps.
In criterium racing, cyclists compete against each other in a mass start, and the goal is to complete the most laps in the given time. The winner is the one who completes the greatest number of laps or who crosses the finish line first. The race typically includes tight corners and short straights, requiring riders to have good technical skills and the ability to accelerate quickly.
Criterium racing is a popular form of bike racing, and is featured in many professional cycling events. In the 2019 Tour de France, for example, there were five criterium stages, with the longest being 22.5 km. This type of racing is also popular in the United States, with an estimated 2 million people participating in criterium races in 2019.
Origins of Criterium Racing in Cycling Events
Criterium racing is a type of cycling event that has been around since the early 1900s. It is a form of bicycle racing that is typically held on a closed circuit, usually a short, closed-circuit that is around 1 km in length. The races are usually fast-paced and require a lot of quick decision making.
The term 'criterium' was first used in France in 1907 to describe a race that was held on a closed loop course. The race was held in the city of Pau, and was known as the 'Criterium de Pau'. This event was the first of its kind and the term 'criterium' was used to describe the race.
The term then spread to other countries, and in the 1930s it was used to describe a type of bicycle race in the United States. In the US, the races were held on shorter circuit courses, usually between 1 and 2 miles in length. The races were also known for their high speeds and the short time frames in which they had to be completed.
Today, criterium races are held all over the world and are a popular form of bicycle racing. They are often held as part of larger cycling events and can feature some of the best cyclists in the world. Criterium races can be found in many countries, including the United States, France, Italy, and Australia.
