JULY 25: NORTHBROOK
Northbrook Grand Prix returns in 2024!
Northbrook Grand Prix debuted in 2022, and quickly became a rider favorite (thanks to a technical corner, tree-lined streets, free popcorn, and an excellent post-race vibe).
Fun Fact: Northbrook is a haven for cyclists and home to the second oldest velodrome in the nation!
Northbrook has a number of wonderful restaurants for riders and spectators! We will be updating our website and social media with spectator information. Click here to go to our website.
Please be aware:
Racers and spectators are asked to park the following locations:
– West METRA lot (1401 Shermer Rd)
– Grainger lot (1657 Shermer Rd)
– Northbrook Junior High (1475 Maple Avenue)
-Techny Prairie Park and Fields (1700 Techny Rd)
See the site map for team tent locations in the Village Green Park – NOTE: tents must be weighted, NO staking!
CHICAGO GRIT EVENTS SCHEDULES : NORTHBROOK
Information
Originally incorporated in 1901 as Shemerville in honor of Frederick Schermer (who donated land for the village’s first train station), Northbrook was renamed in 1923 for a fork of the North Branch of the Chicago River, which runs through the Village. In the classic 1986 movie, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” Northbrook was portrayed as Shermer, Illinois, the title character’s hometown. The “Save Ferris” water tower from the movie (which is featured in the Northbrook Grand Prix’s official logomark) will be visible from the racecourse’s perimeter.
Northbrook is also home to America’s second oldest velodrome. The Ed Ruldolph Velodrome (named for the late Park District Board member) opened in 1960 with a perimeter for track cycling and a grassy infield for soccer games. Many winters, the Velodrome was flooded to create a speed skating rink. It even served as a practice rink for members of several U.S. Winter Olympics teams. Unfortunately this practice ended in the 1990s due to the facility’s inability to retain water. Every summer the Velodrome continues to attract top cyclists from the Midwest to weekly races, hosted by the Northbrook Cycle Committee.
The Northbrook Grand Prix is fun for everyone from the avid cyclist to the newfound fan of the sport. This fast and punchy 1 KM crit is sure to demand attention and defiance on every short stretch and turn, as it winds around the beauty of the Village Green. A Family Fun Ride and a variety of food/drink venues within the downtown area will be part of the festivities.
Follow the Northbrook Grand Prix at https://www.nbgrandprix.com/, on Facebook (@NorthbrookGrandPrix), Instagram (@NorthbrookGrandPrix), and Twitter (@NBGrandPrix)
We have worked hard to create a fun and exciting event this year!
Here are a few things spectators and racers should be sure to check out:
- Join the Family Fun ride 6:15 to 6:45. Ride the same course as the racers with your family and friends. **Please note** All riders must sign a waiver at the Volunteer check in tent located near rider registration.
- Be sure to check out various sponsors and partners in the Expo Area