Skyscraper Classic to feature messenger races

Harlem's 35th Annual Skyscraper Cycling Classic, presented by Rock Racing and Saab, will become the proving ground for the city's bicycle messengers with the addition of a four-rider "package pass" team relay on a specially modified course. The messengers will get the prime time slot at 3:30pm, just before the start of the professional men's race at 4:10.

Held on Sunday, June 15 at Marcus Garvey Park in New York City, the race will offer up a generous prize list of $1,000 as well as a track frame by Affinity Cycles. Squid, the iconic New York City messenger and owner of Cyclehawks Messengers stated, "This is a great opportunity for messengers to show their positive impact on the city and to get a chance to share the stage with the pros."

The Skyscraper Harlem Cycling Classic boasts a rich and respected history. Founded in 1973 by David A. Walker, a former Community Affairs Officer for the New York City Police Department, the event has always mixed community service with high-level professional racing. Over the past 35-years, Mr. Walker has given away hundreds of bicycles to winners of the children's races that traditionally kick off the day's activities at 12:00 noon.