WHEELS UP // Help Fearless Cyclists Get to Italy for Red Hook Crit Milano

Red Hook Crit 2011. Photo: Ed Glazar

Want to help some of the U.S.' most unflinching cyclists tear up the streets in Italy?

The Red Hook Criterium is a super-intense, highly competitive, unsanctioned street race that takes place each year on a cold, dark night in Red Hook, attracting a hoard of daring, world-class cyclists (as well as some great photographers). Last year the race expanded to Italy for the inaugural Red Hook Crit Milano, in which Spain's Jon Ander Ortuondo narrowly edged out Colorado's Neil Bezdek in a dramatic finish.

On October 15th RHC is headed back to the streets of Milan for another international showdown, and they need financial support to help send six of their best cyclists back across the pond. Donate $100 or more and you can snag a Red Hook Crit t-shirt and signed poster.

If you're on the fence about chipping in, hit the jump for some inspirational words from a few of the competitors seeking your support. We've also included a must-watch video of last year's RHC Milano—experience its nail-biting finish in slow motion.

Kacey Manderfield (Trexlertown, PA - 1st RHC 2008, 4th RHC Milano 2010) on the Red Hook Crit:

The Red Hook Crit is like the awesome eccentric old man of bike racing—brought back to life by a young man's idea. It mixes all levels and abilities together and there is a bond between all—we all strive to be the most dominant, smooth, surreal power of the night as we navigate corner after corner with graffiti covered walls screaming by us as if they are the ones moving.

Al Barouh (Brooklyn, NY - 3rd RHC 2010, 3rd RHC 2011, 6th in RHC Milano 2010) on what he'll do in Italy:

I would race aggressively, yet cleverly, with passion and gusto. As a representative of my sponsor on an international level, I would strive to be a kind, respectful and gracious competitor and guest.

John Kniesly (Brooklyn, NY - 2nd RHC 2010, 5th RHC Milano 2010) on racing in a foreign country:

There is a series of unknowns that needs to be analyzed and accounted for when racing in a foreign locale, most of them presenting themselves while the rider hurtles along at 30 miles per hour.

-- John Ruscher