School Duel aims for 1,000 riders in Redlands

REDLANDS, Calif. — From toddlers to teens, children ages 1 to 17 will have a chance to race on the same course as professional cyclists when the Redlands Bicycle Classic’s annual School Duel returns Saturday, April 11.

The event, a long-standing community tradition, takes place on the downtown criterium course and features a series of short-distance, grade-level races designed for young riders of varying skill levels.

Organizers say participation is trending toward a major milestone this year.

“We’re preparing for 1,000,” said race organizer Brian Zander. “We’re pushing to become North America’s largest kids bike race.”

To earn that title, participation would need to surpass last year’s record turnout of about 700 riders.

Organizers have also introduced a new pre-race event this year — School Duel practice sessions — to help students prepare. The sessions, held at Judson and Brown elementary schools during spring break, brought out dozens of students from across Redlands to practice mounting their bikes, balancing and riding in a group.

“Riding in traffic amongst other riders is a skill in and of itself,” Zander said.

Also new this year, organizers have added a category for students with special needs, expanding access to the event.

Zander said the addition is designed to ensure more families can take part, including students who use adaptive equipment or need extra support.

“It’s just another way to include students and their families who may not normally be able to participate in a traditional cycling race,” he said.

A friendly competition

Schools compete for team honors and bragging rights, with large crowds of classmates, families and teachers typically lining the course.

Judson and Brown elementary schools are aiming to maintain their streak, having led participation for nearly a decade. But organizers say this year’s event could see especially strong competition as more schools ramp up recruitment efforts.

More than a dozen elementary schools were represented at recent practice sessions.

“I’m expecting it to be a close competition this year,” Zander said.

All participants will receive a T-shirt and medal.

How to register

Online registration is open through Tuesday, April 7, at 11:59 p.m at this link.

Registration fee is waived for those who sign up online and complete a brief bike safety quiz.

Families are encouraged to pick up race packets in advance to avoid race-day congestion. Early packet pickup is scheduled for Friday evening at Cyclery USA in downtown Redlands.

Participants may also register in person beginning at 7 a.m. on race day at the lower-level parking structure on Citrus Avenue. Registration fees are $7 for ages 1 to 5 and $12 for ages 6 to 17. A $5 late registration fee applies to same-day registration.

Following the race, families can explore the vendor village, eat from food trucks, watch a BMX show and enjoy live music.

The School Duel is part of the Redlands Bicycle Classic, the nation’s longest-running professional stage race, which runs April 8–12 and celebrates its 40th edition in 2026.