It started today; running through Sunday the 13th, it’s

the longest consecutively run elite stage race in the country and has attracted most of North America’s top cyclists and teams over the years. The quality of the race courses, the beauty of Central Oregon and the fun atmosphere of the race has made it a perennial favorite and has the competitors returning year after year.

I always think "Tour de Central Oregon" in regards to the CCC. Most of the stages are all over the place (and man they look grueling) but the ever-popular "Twilight Crit" is in downtown Bend this Friday the 11th, starting at 3pm and staggered at various times after that.

They of course close the downtown streets for that, starting at 2 (and they’ll remain closed for the Summerfest this weekend)—so make sure your car is out of the area by that time or your car will likely be towed (or trapped). (I’ve included their route map below.)