From a press release issued by Infineon Raceway:

Infineon Raceway Debuts New Summer Cycling Series in August

SONOMA, Calif. – Pedal-power will take over Infineon Raceway this summer when the Sonoma Valley facility opens its gates to cyclists of all ages.

The Infineon Raceway Summer Cycling Series will kick-off in August as the raceway opens its gates on six occasions over two months for cyclists to traverse the same road course that is usually reserved for the speed and power of machines like NASCAR NEXTEL Cup stock cars. This marks the first cycling series offered in the 36-year history of the facility.

The Infineon Raceway Summer Cycling Series, which will be open to beginners, as well as experts, will feature four dates for competitive racing (Aug. 12, 26, Sept. 9, 16), as well as two practice dates (Aug. 5, 19). The racing will take place from 6-8:30 pm., with gates opening at 5 p.m.

Whether you’re a high-school student exploring cycling, an expert road-racer or a senior citizen looking for some exercise, the Infineon Raceway Summer Cycling Series will have a division tailored just for you.

Cyclists have long needed a site to call their own, and Infineon Raceway hopes to provide that for them, beginning in 2004 with this abbreviated schedule. If the program is a success, there are plans to expand the schedule for 2005, and beyond.

“The Bay Area is such a hotbed for bicycle enthusiasts, but there are so few stretches of quality pavement where cyclists can ride without mingling with car traffic. I expect this to be a terrific new use for our facility,” said Steve Page, president and general manager at Infineon Raceway.

Cyclists will compete on the same 10-turn, 1.99-mile road course that is used by NASCAR. There will be a variety of racing categories, and cyclists will compete on the road course at various times. Cost will be $10 per rider for competition weeks, and $5 per vehicle for practice weeks. Spectators will be admitted free.

“The cycling community has needed a site to ride and train on, and Infineon Raceway makes perfect sense,” said Michael Sebastiani, race director for the Infineon Raceway Summer Cycling Series. “It’s a unique opportunity for all levels of riders to ride in a safe and supportive location. Plus, how incredible is it to ride the same track as NASCAR drivers like Jeff Gordon?”

For more information on the Infineon Raceway Summer Cycling Series, please e-mail [email protected].

Infineon Raceway Summer Cycling Series Schedule

PRACTICE WEEKS
August 5 6-8:30 p.m.
August 19 6-8:30 p.m.

COMPETITIVE WEEKS
August 12 6-8:30 p.m.
August 26 6-8:30 p.m.
September 9 6-8:30 p.m.
September 16 6-8:30 p.m.

COST: $10 per rider for competition weeks, and $5 per vehicle for practice weeks. Spectators will be admitted free. GATES: Gates open at 5 p.m. for each session.

CATEGORIES ON COMPETITIVE WEEKS: B race at 6
p.m. (Juniors, Women, and 3/4/5 Men) 40 minutes; A Race at 6:45 p.m. (All categories 1/2/3) 50 minutes. United States Cycling Federation
(USCF) license required on competitive dates.