The Century Road Club Association has been racing in Central Park since the nineteenth century, and its series still runs the way it always has — packs of riders taking the park loop at speed in the pre-dawn hours, finishing before most of the city is awake. Watching a criterium go past on East Drive at that hour is one of the odder, better New York sights. If you ride, this is the entry point to actual amateur racing in the city.
What to expect
Racers gather in the dark and go off in category groups on the East Drive loop, riding hard laps while marshals hold the course. Spectating is free and casual — stand near the finish area and the pack comes past repeatedly. It is over early, so the park is back to normal by mid-morning.
Good to know
- Take the 6 to 68th St–Hunter College or the B/C to 72nd St for Central Park's East Drive.
- Racers must be club members and pre-registered; spectating is free and open.
- It is a pre-dawn event — bring a light and dress for the cold, even in summer.
- Stand well clear of the racing line; the pack moves fast and does not stop.
- Bring coffee; nothing in the park is open at that hour.
- Park drives are paved and flat, with step-free access from several entrances.
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Common questions
Who is CRCA?
The Century Road Club Association, one of the oldest cycling clubs in the United States, which has raced in Central Park for well over a century.
Can I watch?
Yes — spectating is free and open along the East Drive course, though the racing happens very early.
Can I race?
Racing requires club membership and advance registration through CRCA rather than turning up on the day.
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