News & Events
February 19, 2008
Presbyterian Hospital Bike Race Upgrades Women’s Competition To Title Series Level
Presbyterian Hospital Bike Race Upgrades Women’s Competition To Title Series Level
CHARLOTTE – The Presbyterian Hospital Invitational Criterium has upgraded the women’s competition for its fifth annual bicycle race in center city Charlotte.
The women’s competition becomes a part of the national 2008 Women’s Prestige Cycling Series, taking the place of the Tour of Bermuda. The Charlotte race is the final event of the series, coming August 2 after the Redland Bicycle Classic in March, the Nature Valley Grand Prix in June and the Tour de Toona in July.
The men’s competition in Charlotte was added to the USA CRITS Championship Series in 2007 and will remain a part of it when it also is run on August 2. The twilight and evening race covers 50 miles on a course that winds through Charlotte’s high rise buildings.
“This is another indication that our bicycle race is growing each year,” said Jim Palermo, founder of the competition and executive-in-residence at Johnson & Wales University’s Charlotte campus.
“It’s quite a feather in our helmet that the women’s final awards and jersey presentations will happen here after our race.”
Again this year, Presbyterian Hospital is the title sponsor. Palermo praised Carl Armato, chief executive of Presbyterian Hospital, for his support and that of his institution for the competition which raises money for the Brain Tumor Fund for the Carolinas. All funds stay in the Carolinas and go toward brain cancer research and patient support programs.
University Volvo will provide the official pace car, Palermo said, as part of a three-year commitment signed before the 2007 race. Additional sponsors are being recruited, he added.
“Our good corporate friends have helped us ensure that our race is an annual event,” Palermo said. “Because of them, it is one of the richest and most prestigious professional cycling events in the United States.”
Total prize money will continue to be $125,000.
Palermo and Dr. Tony Asher of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates founded the Charlotte race in 2004.
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For More Information: Ellison Clary, (704) 344-0893, (704) 763-7290, eclary@carolina.rr.com
