The wheels are turning and the excitement is building as Wilmington’s streets are once again filled with cycling races during the Wilmington Grand Prix.
One of the country’s premier criterium-style bike races, the Grand Prix returns to downtown, promising an action-packed weekend for professional cycling, community rides, and festivities for the whole family.
Grand Prix Weekend Schedule
Weekend festivities kick off Friday, May 16, at 5 p.m. with the famed Monkey Hill Time Trial, a 3.2-mile race through Brandywine Park. The trial challenges riders to a sprint against the clock, culminating in a climb up the cobblestone of Monkey Hill. Along with the trial, attendees can also enjoy live music, craft beer, and local food trucks.
On Saturday, May 17, the Major Taylor Community Ride begins at 11 a.m. Highlighting the inclusivity of cycling, the ride allows riders of all ages and skill levels to ride on the same Wilmington Grand Prix course that professional racers will tackle later that day. Riders can do as many or as few laps as they want within the half-hour time slot. Other races start at noon and continue throughout the evening.
Finally, on Sunday, May 18, enjoy the 17th annual Governor’s Ride and the Delaware Medio and Gran Fondo. The ride begins at Rockford Park and takes riders through the scenic Brandywine Valley. Riders will see some of Delaware’s most-prized cultural attractions like Winterthur, Hagley, Auburn Heights, and the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science.
A Proud Weekend for Wilmington
Along with bringing plenty of fun and festivities to the streets of Wilmington, the Grand Prix also introduces cyclists and supporters to some of New Castle County’s most picturesque sites.
Don Mell, Delaware’s market site lead for Grand Prix presenting sponsor Chase, says, “Chase is thrilled to welcome fans and racers to Market Street. The Wilmington Grand Prix is a showcase of our vibrant downtown, and the weekend highlights our world-class cultural institutions. We are proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Wilmington Grand Prix, and we look forward to cyclists and families enjoying the festivities throughout the weekend in Wilmington and beautiful New Castle County.”
Head to downtown Wilmington this weekend to learn why the Wilmington Grand Prix is recognized as part of USA Cycling’s National Race Calendar for the 17th straight year. Whether you attend Friday evening’s Monkey Hill Time Trial, ride in the Major Taylor community ride, celebrate at Saturday’s street festival, or stand by and watch the races, it’s sure to be a fun weekend for the whole family.
