Annual Chain of Lakes Cycling Classic returns to Polk County
The shores of Lake Buffum and the streets of Winter Haven will once again come alive with cyclists peddling through all challenges the road – or Mother Nature – can throw at them thanks to the return of the Chain of Lakes Cycling Classic. This is the eighth year of the event, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, March 11 and 12, and features riders as young as 9-years-old to more than 60-years old.
On Saturday, cyclists take to the roads surrounding Lake Buffum in Fort Meade, with participants biking anywhere from 14 to 70 miles. Hundreds of racers will test their skill and timing on this road course known for its gentle, rolling topography and scenic vistas. Later in the day there will also be timed trials.
On Sunday, the city streets of Winter Haven will be the proving grounds for the Winter Haven Criterium. Often going well over the speed limit, racers will take to the twists and turns in this fast and furious crowd pleaser. This multi-lap, multi-turn course is considered by many to be the best criterium course in the state for both riders and viewers. Riders get to enjoy the challenges that downtown Winter Haven has to offer, while viewers enjoy the numerous locations for great viewing opportunities.
While the riders compete for prize money and awards, the true winner of the event is the Polk County Humane Society, who has benefited from the race since the beginning.
For more information or to register, visit www.topviewsports.com.
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An initiative of the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, Central Florida’s Polk County Sports Marketing is responsible for recruiting sporting events to Polk County and marketing the county as a venue for competitive sporting events and recreational sports such as golf, tennis, cycling and water skiing/boating. During the past year, 225 PCTSM events generated more than $130 million in economic impact for Polk County. Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing is Florida’s only sports commission to be awarded both the coveted “Sports Commission of the Year” award by the Florida Sports Foundation.
Jack Cormier
Communications Specialist, Central Florida’s Polk County Sports Marketing
2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road | Auburndale, Florida 33823
Direct: 863-551-4709 | Fax: 863-551-4740 | jack@centralfloridasports.com