On Your Mark, Get Set, Go... How Sunday's Weather Will Influence The International Cycling Classic
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The 30th annual Philadelphia International Cycling Classic will pedal through town Sunday, with 38 teams from around the world looping through East Falls and Manayunk.
The Philadelphia tradition will draw 90,000 people to the sidelines, cheering on 180 men and 135 women riders.
"Obviously it's had it's various iterations, from a location standpoint, but I think what we have right now is tight and good and still has the wall, which is critical to cyclists who want to tackle that monster," said Mayor Jim Kenney.
But when asked about the impending weather, "These guys are tough, they'll ride in the rain," the mayor replied.
The City's Deputy Managing Director for Community and Culture, Dave Wilson says they're ready for whatever mother nature will throw at them.
"If you have ever seen the Tour De France, they're riding in that type of weather or worse. The course has been prepped, and prepared, so overall, we feel very confident that we are prepared to host this event this weekend," he said.
But he added that if the weather is too severe, it could impact the race.
"Lightning and high winds. Not only are you going to be concerned about the safety of the participants, but the spectators as well," said Wilson.
"It brings a lot of people into a small congested area, so we are going to make sure that all safety precautions are adhered to," he warned. "Hopefully the weather plays a good role here."
The men's 110 mile race starts at 8 a.m, and the women will begin their ride of 73 miles at 12:30 p.m.