The Thunderbird Circuit Race, often simply called the "Thunderbird," serves as the traditional Spring Series Opener for the competitive road cycling season in British Columbia's Lower Mainland.

• Organizer: The event is usually organized by Local Ride Racing and is sanctioned by Cycling BC.

• Date & Time: March 1st

• Location: The race takes place on a relatively flat and fast circuit course located in the Langley area of BC, in the rural Township of Langley.

• Event Type: It is a circuit race (a set number of laps on a closed-loop course, rather than a point-to-point road race), challenging riders with its high speeds and competitive pace as they shake off their winter training.

• Organizer: Local Ride

• Distance(s)

  • Open A - 96 km Elite Men (Cat 1/2), Master Men (Cat 1/2/3), Cat 1 Women (Option)

  • Open B - 84 km Cat 3 Men, Cat 4 Men, Cat 2/3 Women, Master Men 40+ (Cat 1,2,3)

  • Open C - 66 km Cat 4 Men, Cat 3/4 Women

  • Open D - 48 km Novice/Citizen Men (Cat 5), Novice/Citizen Women, Open Youth

• Categories

  • Elite Men / Women Cat 1, Cat 2 The highest skill-based category, typically Cat 1 & 2 riders racing together.

  • Category 3 Men Cat 3 Experienced amateur racers who have earned points to upgrade from Cat 4.

  • Category 4 Men Cat 4 Intermediate/developing racers who have upgraded from Cat 5.

  • Open Men / Open Women Cat 5 / Citizen

  • Novice/Beginner category. Where most new racers start. Often requires a less restrictive license (like a Single Event License or "Cycling for All").

  • Master Men / Women Age 35+, various skill levels (A, B, C, D)Age-based groupings for older riders. The Masters field is often subdivided by age and/or ability (e.g., Master Men Sport, Master Men Elite)

  • .Junior (U19) Under 19

The Thunderbird is a crucial early-season test for local cycling clubs and a popular target for racers aiming to start the competitive year strong.