MUSCATINE, Iowa–May 28, Weed Park in Muscatine will transform into the center of the regional cycling scene. Riders will gather for the 43rd Melon City Criterium. Part of the Memorial Day Weekend races in Burlington, Muscatine, and Davenport, this race, honoring Charlie Harper, will draw hundreds of cyclists of all ages from across the state and country.
While many bike races have flat terrain, Weed Park provides a welcome change of pace with its hilly topography. “Weed Park is a beautiful location for the race, and it’s challenging because of the uphill,” Race Director Greg Harper observed.
The race’s location inside a city park also proves beneficial, as it allows many races to take place without seriously inconveniencing the neighbors the way a road race would. Harper noted, “one of the great things about racing in Weed Park is it’s minimally disruptive to the community.”
A series of races geared towards riders of differing experience levels, children ages five and six and seven through nine with bikes and helmets can compete in free kids’ races, making a half-mile loop around the upper section of Weed Park, with prizes for the top three places. Preteens through older adults can compete in races based on age and experience level, from four-mile races for junior cyclists to a 40-mile race for the most advanced men’s category. “That’s going to be one of the most exciting events,” predicted Harper.
Throughout the day, anyone may watch the racing. “It’s free, so they can come for part or all of the day,” Harper elaborated.
Greg Harper (center) with several Melon City Criterium winners. Photo courtesy Greg Harper.
He recommends watching the racers speed through the downhill stretch, though sitting by the start and finish line offers exciting sights too. “There are many good vantage points,” Harper observed.
For those wanting to help with the race, the Melon City Bike Club, which hosts the event, often needs volunteers to help direct traffic. To discover more about volunteering or sign up for a time, Harper encourages you to visit the Melon City Bike Club’s website.
This year, the Melon City Criterium will feature several local food trucks for the first time. They include Arley’s, Ladybug Concessions from Tipton, and a food tent hosted by the Rendezvous.
Though the race’s brief pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic led to a drop in participation, Harper has seen the number of people registering start to climb. Last year, approximately 250 riders from more than 20 states competed in the race. “It’s starting to build back up,” he remarked.
Because of its inclusion in the Memorial Day Weekend Races, varied course, and convenient lodging and dining options, the Melon City Criterium has proved popular with cyclists year after year. It has also grown into a Muscatine tradition, introducing cyclists from all over to the Pearl City. For these reasons, Harper intends to keep it that way. “It’s an event I’ve found the racers enjoy,” he shared. “It’s a great opportunity for the racers, and I want to keep it going as long as possible.”
