Marana time trial Prologue
About
The Marana Time Trial Prologue kicks off the Tucson Bicycle Classic, giving riders their first chance to test their strength against the clock. This 4.5-mile (7.2 km) point-to-point course takes place on the brand-new Marana extension of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, offering smooth pavement, scenic desert views, and an Eddy Merckx-style challenge—no aero equipment allowed!
This race isn’t just about speed—it’s a test of power, endurance, and strategy. Riders will set off one at a time, competing for the fastest time and the first leader’s jersey of the Tucson Bicycle Classic. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an ambitious amateur, this time trial sets the tone for the weekend’s racing.
Spectator Information
Come watch the pros and up-and-coming amateurs race against the clock! The Marana Time Trial Prologue is a point-to-point race, making it an exciting event to watch as riders launch off the start line and hammer their way to the finish. Races will begin as early as 7:00am, and will conclude mid-afternoon.
- Best places to watch: The splash pad or dog park in the Gladden Farms Park is an excellent spectator location. The start is also an exciting vantage poinm and can be accessed from the Heritage River Park or from the Stainsbury Place cul-de-sac. Watch the riders take off at high intensity, then head over to the finish line to cheer them in.
- Course access: The entire course follows the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, and spectators are welcome to watch from the dirt shoulder along the route. Please be aware: racers will be going very fast so we kindly ask that you stay off the path at all times for your own safety and the safety of the racers.
- This section of the Loop will be closed to all users during the event, for the safety of the racers.
- Get close to the action: This is your chance to see national and international pro and amateur riders up close as they push their limits on the first day of racing.
- Parking: Rider and spectator parking at Marana Heritage River Park, 12375 N. Heritage Park Drive, Marana, AZ 85653.
Traffic Closures
Unlike traditional road races, this time trial takes place on a brand-new section of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, which means NO road closures for vehicles.
We are deeply grateful for our Course Sponsor Discover Marana for making this event possible. We also want to extend our thanks to CalPortland, as their cooperation with the Town of Marana made this beautiful new loop extension possible.
Cyclists & pedestrians can still access other sections of the Loop, but the section of the Loop in use will be closed to everyone except TBC racers, for the safety of our riders.
Event Schedule and course map
Event Schedule
All categories will be released in 30-second intervals, with 5-10 minute intervals between race categories. Races will begin as early as 7:00am, and will conclude mid-afternoon.
Course Map
Spectators please be aware: in order to keep our riders safe. we ask that you spectate from the dirt shoulder, just off the paved loop paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
A time trial (TT) is often called the "race of truth" because it tests each rider’s individual strength, speed, and endurance without drafting or team tactics. Riders start one at a time at set intervals and race against the clock over a designated course. The fastest time wins, making it an exciting event where every second counts!
The Marana Time Trial Prologue is an Eddy Merckx-style TT, meaning no time trial bikes, aero bars, or disc wheels - just a rider, a road bike, and pure power.
Cycling races are divided into categories based on experience and skill level:
- Pro & Elite Categories: The fastest, most competitive riders, including national and international professional racers.
- Category 1-5 (Men) & 1-4 (Women): Amateur racers, with Category 1 being the most advanced and Category 5 (Men) / Category 4 (Women) being entry-level.
- Masters Categories: Age-based groups for riders 35+ or 40+, depending on the field.
Each rider competes within their category to ensure fair and exciting racing!
Nope! Spectating is free, and we encourage everyone to come out and support the riders.
You’ll need to stand on the dirt shoulder along the course to stay clear of the race. The start and finish lines are the best places for viewing!
Absolutely! The Chuck Huckelberry Loop is a bike-friendly route, and we encourage cycling to the event. Just be aware that portions of the course will be closed to racers only during the event.
Yes, there will be designated parking at the Marana Heritage Park.
Yes! Enjoy food trucks, and the fantastic atmosphere as you watch some of the best cyclists race against the clock!
The Marana Time Trial Prologue is a 4.5-mile (7.2 km) course, and since it's an individual time trial, each rider races alone against the clock.
- Pro riders can complete the course in around 8-10 minutes
- Amateur riders may take 10-15 minutes, depending on experience and fitness level
The entire event lasts a few hours, depending on the number of racers, with riders starting at set intervals (every 30 seconds). Spectators can watch throughout the event, especially at the start and finish lines, where the action is most exciting!
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