Beanpot Cycling Classic

Breaks often form on the deceptive Brigham Hill, a 3/4 mile climb with a false crest halfway up.

The fast, sharp turns and repeated climbs cause the race to break early.

In 2006 that number swelled to 470 racers before breaking the 500-racer barrier and its own previous record for largest collegiate race in history with the 2007 edition.

The Beanpot incorporated this innovation initially in order to accommodate the growing numbers of racers in each race.

MIT, Northeastern University, Wentworth Institute of Technology, and Boston College coordinate finances, promotion, fund-raising, and administration for the event.

A number of current professional level athletes as well as other cycling dignitaries have attended the Beanpot over the years.

Former professional racer and current pro team manager Jonathan Vaughters was a guest speaker at the pasta dinner at the 2004 Beanpot.

Notable professional riders who have raced the Beanpot include multi-time Olympian & 23+ time national champion Bobby Lea as well as his Penn State teammate Mike Friedman.