The women’s racing scene in Wisconsin and Illinois is growing stronger every season, with more opportunities than ever for cyclists of all levels to experience the thrill of competition. Whether you’re transitioning from recreational riding or coming from another sport, the WI/IL Cycling Association offers a welcoming and supportive environment for women to begin their racing journey.
Getting Started: Your First Steps
Understanding Categories
Racing categories in women’s events are designed to ensure fair, competitive experiences for all participants:
- Category 5: Entry-level racing, perfect for beginners
- Category 4: Developing racers with some experience
- Category 3: Intermediate racers with solid skills
- Categories 1/2: Advanced and elite racers
Each category offers unique learning opportunities and appropriate levels of competition.
Finding Your Women’s Racing Community
Local Women’s Teams
Our region features several women-focused teams that welcome new racers:
- Regular group rides for skills development
- Mentorship programs pairing new racers with experienced members
- Team training camps and clinics
- Social events and networking opportunities
Training Resources
- Weekly Women’s Rides
- Tuesday Evening Skills Sessions
- Saturday Morning Social Rides
- Monthly Race Simulation Events
- Beginner-friendly pace options
- Educational Workshops
- Basic bike handling
- Pack riding skills
- Race tactics and strategy
- Equipment selection and setup
Your First Race Experience
Choosing Your First Event
The WI/IL Cycling Association offers several beginner-friendly events:
- Early Season Options
- Spring Training Series (March)
- Learn-to-Race Clinics
- Shortened Course Options
- Mentored Racing Experiences
- Category 5 Specific Events
- Protected field starts
- Technical skills instruction
- Race strategy guidance
- Immediate post-race debriefs
Essential Equipment and Preparation
Basic Requirements for Women’s Racing
- Racing Essentials
- Properly fitted road bike
- CPSC-approved helmet
- Two water bottle cages
- Spare tube and mini-pump
- Racing license (available on-site)
- Recommended Additions
- Heart rate monitor
- Cycling computer
- Comfortable racing kit
- Post-race recovery nutrition
Building Your Racing Calendar
2025 Season Highlights
- Spring Events (March-May)
- Women’s Training Series
- Introductory Time Trials
- Skills Development Races
- Category 5 Specific Events
- Summer Series (June-August)
- Weekly Criterium Series
- Road Race Championships
- Team Time Trial Events
- Stage Race Opportunities
Support Systems
Mentorship Program
The WI/IL Women’s Racing Initiative provides:
- One-on-one mentoring
- Race day guidance
- Equipment advice
- Training plan support
Online Resources
- Digital Community
- Women’s racing Facebook group
- Weekly Zoom training sessions
- Race preparation webinars
- Equipment exchange forum
- Training Tools
- Structured training plans
- Skills development videos
- Nutrition guides
- Race day checklists
Getting Connected
Next Steps
- Join the Community
- Register for our mailing list
- Follow our social media channels
- Attend a newcomer’s meeting
- Join a local team
- Prepare for Racing
- Attend a skills clinic
- Join group training rides
- Get your racing license
- Schedule a bike fitting
Looking Forward
Development Pathways
- Short-term Goals
- Complete first race
- Master basic pack skills
- Join a team
- Earn category upgrade
- Long-term Opportunities
- State championships
- Regional competitions
- Team leadership roles
- Mentorship positions
Special Programs
2025 Women’s Racing Initiatives
- Reduced entry fees for first-time racers
- Equipment lending program
- Travel stipends for away races
- Team development grants
Connect with us through the WI/IL Cycling Association website to learn more about women’s racing opportunities and support programs.
Join our growing community of women racers and discover the excitement, challenge, and camaraderie of competitive cycling in Wisconsin and Illinois.