The weather looks to be ideal for a weekend of great racing in Charleston, South Carolina. Saturday is the I’On Village criterium and then Sunday the state criterium championships are being contested just two miles from downtown Charleston. This is the same course as last year. This one-mile loop is described as being non-technical with sweeping turns. Look for some fast speeds from all the categories.

Sponsorship for this weekend has stepped up resulting in more primes as well as swag bags for all registered racers. This includes a $1,500 of Hammer Nutrition productions in addition to last year’s $1,500 in primes. So stay near the front of the pack and be ready to sprint.

Bike racing won’t be the only form of entertainment this weekend. The Blue Angels will be performing graceful aerobatic maneuvers over the harbor on both days starting at 2:00PM.

Several restaurants will be offering pre and post-race grub this race weekend. On Saturday O’Brien’s Pub will be serving hamburgers, chicken sandwiches and drinks. On Sunday Sticky Fingers will be serving a host of different plates. Jacob’s Kitchen in the I’On Village is also open for brunch and dinner this weekend. With all these choices there’s no excuse to leave hungry.

Saturday is a fundraiser and animal adoption event at Shelmore Village from 4PM to 7PM. There will be a silent auction, raffle, contests as well as contests for your dog. Take some of that prime money you won and think about donating to a worthwhile cause.

At noon the course will be cleared of racers and the kids take center stage. While state championship jerseys aren’t on the line, children’s racing is just as entertaining.

With fantastic weather conditions, amazing community support, various family activities and a state champion’s jersey at stake expect to have a great weekend in Charleston.

Look for daily race reports from Carolina Cycling News