Excitement Builds for Easton’s Premier Cycling Event on May 25

May 21, 2024

World-Class Cyclists Set to Shine at Easton's Fourth Twilight Criterium

EASTON, Pa. (May 21)/OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – As the anticipation builds for the fourth edition of the Easton Twilight Criterium presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network, cycling enthusiasts are gearing up to witness a star-studded lineup of world-class athletes competing on the streets of Downtown Easton on Saturday, May 25.

“We’re very excited for this year’s race,” says Event Director, Kacey Lloyd. “With the partnerships in Easton, we’re able to host not only a great athletic competition for the best riders in the country, but we can also host PA State Championships for other categories, a run event, and wheelie and skateboard competitions. This truly a full-spectrum event.”

Among the standout women competitors set to grace the Easton Twilight Criterium are:

Coryn Labecki (Lancaster, PA): The first active World-Tour rider to race in Easton is also a Pennsylvania resident. The 74-time national champion in road, cyclocross, and track is looking for a showdown against L39ion, Miami Blazers, DNA Pro Cycling, and LA Sweat. With a focus on the Tour de France Femmes, she is carrying incredible form into Easton and will be one to watch against full squads of professional teams.

Alexis Magner (Athens, GA): A seasoned multi-discipline United States national champion, Magner boasts an impressive racing pedigree, having competed on the UCI World Tour level with Canyon-SRAM. Joining her sister, former national champion Kendall Ryan, on L39ion of Los Angeles, Magner has consistently showcased her prowess, recently clinching victory at the Athens Orthopedic Clinic Twilight Criterium.

Arielle Verhaaren (Williamsburg, VA): Transitioning from a celebrated career in BMX racing, where she was the first American woman to win a UCI BMX Supercross World Cup, Verhaaren has swiftly made her mark on the road cycling scene. With her formidable Automatic-Abus team, Verhaaren is poised to challenge for a podium finish in Easton.

Holly Simonson (CAN): Hailing from Canada, Simonson is the current Canadian criterium national champion whose star continues to rise with LA Sweat. The 2023 Tour of Plainfield winner comes with a formidable team and aims to build on her impressive performances from the previous year and contend for victory at Easton.

Skyler Schneider (West Allis, WI): As the Pan American Road Champion and multi-time national champion, Schneider brings a wealth of experience to the Miami Blazers team. Having tasted success both domestically and internationally, Schneider is a formidable contender for top honors in Easton.

On the men’s side, notable contenders include:

Thomas Gibbons (Cape May Courthouse, NJ): With a stellar track record in European and New Zealand races, Gibbons enters Easton with newfound confidence following his recent triumph at the Athens Orthopedic Clinic Twilight Criterium. Backed by his Automatic-Abus teammates, Gibbons is primed for success.

Alex Juan Pablo Zapata (COL): A versatile athlete with numerous accolades, including Colombian MTB National champion and Pan American Track champion, Zapata brings his international experience to the DCC squad. Known for his exceptional bike handling skills, Zapata is a strong contender for victory in Easton.

Danny Estevez (Worcester, MA): A former U.S. national champion and Tour of Somerville winner, Estevez returns to Easton with the formidable L39ion of Los Angeles squad. With his sprinting prowess and team support, Estevez aims to reclaim the top spot on the podium.

Cory Williams (Los Angeles, CA): A former U.S. National champion and current Belizian National Road Race champion, Williams boasts a stellar track record of victories across the U.S. With a strong leadout from the Miami Blazers team, Williams is poised to make his mark on the Easton Twilight Crit.

James Gardner (NZL): At just 19 years old, Gardner represents the next generation of talent emerging from New Zealand. With the backing of the MitoQ-New Zealand Cycling Project, Gardner aims to showcase his skills and challenge the field for victory.

Eat, Drink and Play

With local partners, the race features Aperol Crit Spritz in the VIP area and surrounding restaurants. Many restaurants feature course side seating. A kid’s zone hosted by the Valley Preferred Cycling Center will have a kid’s bike rodeo in Centre Square. Push Ahead, a local skateboarding initiative, will feature skateboarding lessons for free on 3rd Street all day.

The Easton Twilight Criterium promises an electrifying showcase of talent and athleticism, providing spectators with a thrilling day of racing action. The Greater Easton Development Partnership, Lehigh Valley Health Network, and the race’s other partners invite the general public to come out, enjoy the action, and be part of this dynamic experience. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast, a casual observer, or a family looking for an exciting weekend outing, Easton Twilight Criterium promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Live Stream and Results: For those who can’t make it to the event, we are excited to offer a live stream of the Women’s and Men’s Pro Races starting at 7:20pm. Tune in to Bicycling Magazine’s Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/@BicyclingMag to catch all the action live as it happens.

Stay updated with real-time results and standings throughout the race on our official results page at https://my.raceresult.com/288633/

For more information, race categories, and event details, please visit https://eastontwilightcrit.com/ or contact info@longtailproductions.com

About Long Tail Productions: With a commitment to safety, innovation, and community building, Long Tail Productions continues to evolve and redefine the event production landscape in Pennsylvania and beyond. Their blend of expertise, passion, and creative vision has positioned them as industry leaders, leaving an enduring legacy of unforgettable experiences for athletes and enthusiasts alike.

About GEDP: GEDP is a volunteer-driven, nonprofit organization focused on Easton’s economic well-being, historical integrity, programmatic development, vibrant culture, and hospitality. GEDP comprises the Easton Farmers’ Market, Easton Main Street Initiative, Easton Public Market, PA Bacon Fest, the Easton Ambassadors, and many other programs. More: eastonpartnership.org.