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Overview
The 1.3 mile MBGP was started in 1962 by local cycling legend Ted Ernst, who was inducted into the Bicycling Hall of Fame in 2006. It is the oldest single-day race in the US to be held on the same course. This LA Daily News article about Ted shows the first flyer and newspaper announcement for the race. Ted, at 84, is still very active as a mentor in the racing community, and oversees the Kid's races each year. As the race has grown over the past 55 years, it has developed a reputation for providing the highest-quality competition that benefits both the community and the athlete. You can also read more about Ted's background in this Easy Reader article.
We feature a food court and a vendor's area where you may shop and purchase the latest in bicycle accessories, clothing, and various nutritionals. The MBGP provides racing for all levels of men and women USAC racers as well as a wide age range of community racers. Our race is one of the longest running bike races in America and draws contestants from six continents. It is also one of the more "technical" courses on the USA Cycling criterium calendar.
The MBGP draws about 5000 spectators and nearly 1,000 racers. Many fields usually sell-out so online pre-registration is highly recommended. There is no longer Mail-in or Saturday course registration. The Race Flyer on the home page menu has more info.
The race course is considered to be challenging and technical. Shaped like a slightly bent "paperclip", the 1.3 mile course features two long straight-aways, two sweeping 180° turns, and 50' of climbing per lap. You can expect a headwind on the far side so breakaways are rarely successful. This race is about team tactics and setting up for the final turn. With just 250 meters to the finish line, if you are not in the top 10 coming out of the last turn, you will have little to no chance of winning your event.
The MBGP is co-sponsored by the South Bay Wheelmen (founded by Ted in 1961) and the South Bay Wheelmen Foundation, a 501c3 charitible organization supporting amateur cycling competition at all levels.
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