It may only be February — but the hustle to plan for one of Huntsville’s biggest summer events is already underway.
While some families are preparing for beach trips for Memorial Day, others are already hard at work preparing to volunteer at the 2023 UCI Para-Cycling World Cup, the first international paracycling event held on American soil — and it’s right here in Huntsville!
“We want people to stay in town and help with this great international event in the Rocket City,” said Claire Aiello, vice president of marketing and communications for the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber.
The race will be held May 26-29 in Cummings Research Park with over 350 athletes representing 30+ countries. The schedule will vary between time trials and road races with multiple kinds of cycling, including two-wheeled, handcycles, two-person tandem teams and tricycles.
Join the team!
Aiello says it’s a “great, safe race,” but they need a little more than 500 volunteers to make sure it goes smoothly.
“The main role we need to fill is course marshals,” she continued. “These are positions along the course to keep it clear and safe for the racers. It’s an easy job and a great spot for fans of cycling who want to cheer on the world’s elite cyclists.”
Volunteering can provide a front row seat to the event — and it’s easy to sign up. Click here to join the team! All volunteers will receive training, a free T-shirt and a meal if their selected shift falls around lunchtime.
Gaining buzz
The event will provide a holiday weekend full of fun. After two successful Para-cycling road events in Huntsville with U.S. Paralympics Cycling in 2021 and 2022, cyclists themselves are excited to be back in the Rocket City.
“The ones who have come already have enjoyed it,” Aiello said. “They say Huntsville is a diverse city that offers opportunities for those with different abilities. It’s also a challenging race and with so many U.S.-based athletes already talking about Huntsville, our name has gained buzz in the cycling community.”
“This event is three times larger than the ones in years past, and it’s the first with international flavor,” she concluded. “Go ahead and sign up now, and put it on your calendar!”
If you’re interested in keeping the wheels spinning for the big race, click here to sign up to volunteer or visit huntsvilleparaworldcup.com for more information.