The Twilight Crit is a thrill
for riders and spectators.
(Photos © J. Maus)
for riders and spectators.
(Photos © J. Maus)
Since 2002, the Twilight Criterium has brought professional bike racing to downtown Portland. The event attracts some of America’s fastest riders and thousands of spectators to witness their talents. But this year, when a title sponsor pulled out, it almost didn’t happen.
Health Net had invested over $35,000 annually as the event’s title sponsor since 2005 (that same year, a rider named Tyler Farrar — who had an excellent showing at the Tour de France — took the win). Without Health Net helping foot the bill for the expensive permits, equipment, insurance, prize money, officials, and other costs, organizers said they were on the brink of canceling this year’s event.
