The 2019 Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race is tomorrow, Saturday, April 13. Spectators are encouraged to cheer the racers on, ring bells or blow horns to start them off. The 3,500 riders will go out in waves, starting at 10 a.m. on Green Street, with the exception of the 100 miles racers who leave at 7 a.m.

 

 The four race lengths are the 22-mile “Chiller,” 36-mile “Thriller,” 62-mile “Killer” and the 100-mile “Psycho-Killer.” The Fat Bikes have categories in the 22 and 36-mile races.

 

Cyclocross, mountain, road, single speed, fixed gear, fat bikes and tandem bicycles are all in the race with riders who come from all over the United States and internationally.

  

Cyclists will collect some $34,000 in cash and prizes, trophies and medals in an awards ceremony for top finishers. The Founders Street Party features street bonfires, music and food trucks, as well as the West Michigan Mountain Biking Alliance beer tent with kegs of Founders Ale from 11a.m. to 6 p.m. on race day

 

Other than Summerfest, Barry-Roubaix is probably the city’s largest annual event with the most participants and spectators. Police Reserve Officers, Ambassadors and Cadets welcome visitors, answer questions and point out parking spaces.

There are more than 2,800 free parking spaces in Hastings public and private parking lots, plus free street parking.