Cycling in Bend

It's not exactly the Tour de France, but cycling is pretty popular here in Bend, Oregon. This weekend special races are being held in downtown Bend, including a criterium, which puts together around 200 cyclists as they circle around an enclosed area for 45 minutes, until a winner is declared. I watched the semi-professionals yesterday evening and was utterly impressed with the speed of these cyclists. 

Earlier, races for youth and women were held along the same track. The main streets of downtown Bend, which are usually abuzz with visitors, tourists and beer samplers, were closed off for the race. These photos are just a sample of a few others I took of the last race held last evening. Since I follow the Tour de France regularly, I had no idea the speed of such professional races, and the dedication of these cyclists.