World's top cyclists compete uptown Saturday

CHARLOTTE — The Novant Health Invitational Criterium was held in uptown Charlotte Saturday.

An international field of the world's top men and women's professional cyclists competed for over $50,000 in prize money. This was the competition's 12th year.

The races took place on a mile-long spectator-friendly course starting at the intersection of Trade and Tryon streets. Over 350,000 people have lined Charlotte's streets since its first year to cheer on the riders.

Cyclists competed for the country's largest single-day prize purse in bicycle criterium racing. Over the race's history, winners have come from seven different countries and over $1 million in cash prizes have been awarded.

The event is held to raise money and awareness for the Brain Tumor Fund for the Carolinas. The BTFC is dedicated to supporting Charlotte area brain cancer patients by assisting them in their navigation of the health care system and encouraging research.

The Novant Health Invitational Criterium has raised $5 million for the organization during its history.

Below is a list of events.

Race Expo - 2:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Tryon Street between 4th Street and Trade Street at the Bank of America Plaza

Keith's BMX Freestyle Shows – 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
S. Tryon & 4th Street

Amateur Shootout Race – 5 p.m.
Trade & Tryon Street, Center City Charlotte
30 minutes - $3,000, plus Lap Premes

Professional Women's Race – 6:00 p.m.
Trade & Tryon Street, Center City Charlotte
25 miles - $20,000, plus Lap Premes

Professional Men's Race – 7:30 p.m.
Trade & Tryon Street, Center City Charlotte
50 miles - $20,000, plus Lap Premes

Professional Women and Men's Awards Ceremony - 9:40 p.m.
Trade & Tryon Street, Center City Charlotte

WSOC