Annual race series brings time trial, criterium and circuit racing to Rancho Cordova May 1–3, drawing riders from across Northern California and beyond
Rancho Cordova will once again take center stage in Northern California’s cycling scene this weekend as more than 1,200 cyclists and spectators are expected to converge on the city May 1–3 for the 21st annual Golden State Race Series.
Organized by Rio Strada Racing in partnership with Visit Rancho Cordova, the long-running event has built a reputation as a cornerstone of the regional racing calendar and a consistent fixture in the broader Northern California racing circuit, drawing competitors from across the state and beyond for a full weekend of high-level competition, youth participation and spectator-friendly action.
The three-day series opens Friday with the time trial, a six-mile individual race against the clock staged along Rod Beaudry Drive. Riders will compete in a range of categories, beginning with novice classifications, with the first racers scheduled to start at 10:30 a.m. Organizers note the event will follow Merckx-style rules, meaning no time trial bikes or aero bars are permitted, emphasizing raw power and pacing over specialized equipment. The time trial is pre-registration only and is conducted using the BikeReg platform.
Saturday’s criterium shifts the energy into one of the most exciting and spectator-friendly formats in cycling. Held on a closed-loop course at 11000 Cobblebrook Drive, the race features a fast-paced, 0.9-mile circuit where riders navigate tight turns and high-speed pack dynamics over timed race intervals. Racing begins as early as 7 a.m., with registration closing 15 minutes prior to each race. Fields generally require a minimum number of riders and may be combined at the promoter’s discretion to ensure competitive racing.
The weekend concludes Sunday with the circuit race, also staged at the Cobblebrook Drive course, where competitors take on a longer 2.3-mile loop that tests endurance, race strategy and finishing strength. Like the criterium, Sunday’s races begin early in the morning and continue throughout the day across multiple divisions.
The Golden State Race Series offers a wide range of divisions, including junior categories for ages 10–14 and 15–18, masters divisions, women’s fields and elite-level racing. A kids bike race for participants ages 9 and under adds to the family-friendly atmosphere, with helmets required and parent waivers necessary for participation.
Entry fees are set at $55 per race, with reduced pricing for junior riders at $25 for ages 10–14 and $40 for ages 15–18. Day-of registration is available for the criterium and circuit races, though a surcharge applies, and riders may enter multiple races with an additional fee for a second race. Organizers note that prize payouts are awarded across many divisions, with daily and overall series awards based on field sizes. In most cases, a minimum of five riders is required for full prize payouts, with higher participation thresholds for elite categories.
The event operates under USA Cycling sanctioning, with official race oversight, insurance coverage and safety requirements in place, including mandatory helmet use for all participants. One-day licenses are available for novice riders looking to compete.
Beyond the competition, the event delivers a notable boost to the local economy, filling hotels and drawing steady crowds to race venues throughout the weekend. A host hotel has been designated at the Hampton Inn Rancho Cordova, where a limited room block of approximately 15 rooms has been reserved for participants and spectators, offering complimentary breakfast and free parking while availability lasts.
Spectators are encouraged to attend, particularly for the criterium races, which offer continuous viewing opportunities as riders pass frequently through the course. Admission is free, making it an accessible outing for families and cycling fans alike. On-site amenities will include restrooms, medical personnel, and food options available throughout the day.
As the series enters its 21st year, its continued return to Rancho Cordova highlights the city’s role as a reliable host for large-scale sporting events and its growing reputation within the cycling community.
Registration, full race schedules and additional event details are available online atwww.riostradaracing.com.
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