Elmhurst University will soon be at the center of cycling with the return of the Elmhurst Cycling Classic, a racing event that draws professional and amateur bike racers from around the country to test their skills on a course that encircles the University campus.

One of the racers will be Elmhurst alumnus and former men’s basketball player Derek Dotlich ’20, who is scheduled to compete in the final Pro elite race.

Organized by the DuPage Cycling Foundation, the daylong Elmhurst Cycling Classic begins at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, at the Start/Finish line on Prospect Avenue across from the Wilder Mansion (211 S. Prospect Ave.).

Highlights include high-speed bike racing for juniors, amateurs and professionals; a Family Fun Ride along the racecourse; and an expo area, beer garden and food trucks outside Wilder Mansion. New this year is the Elmhurst Twilight Mile, a race on the cycling course for some of the fastest mile runners from around the Chicago area.

Spectators are encouraged to bike, carpool or take the train to the event. A free bike valet, offered by members of the Elmhurst Bicycle Club, will be provided at the Wilder Park tennis courts.

Admission to the Elmhurst Cycling Classic is free and the event is open to the public. For more information, visit elmbike.com. (Because the course winds around the Elmhurst University campus, access to campus will be restricted for the day.)

As a sponsor of the Elmhurst Cycling Classic, Elmhurst University supports events and programming that enable our students to engage with their community and thrive as adaptive leaders.

The Elmhurst Cycling Classic benefits the DuPage Cycling Foundation, a nonprofit that raises funds for community organizations with missions that support the enrichment of community health and education. Previous beneficiaries have included Yorkfield Food Pantry, Elmhurst Children’s Assistance Foundation, District 205 Foundation, United Community Concerns, Elmhurst University student scholarships and People for Elmhurst Parks.