“Of course, Team CLIF Bar Cycling is not your average crew of crit sharks. The program, which supports riders with equipment and expenses, but doesn’t provide a salary, focuses exclusively on criterium racing and emphasizes community connection over results-at-all-costs. They’re known for having a good time, putting on a great show, and spending a lot of time on extracurricular activities (read: rallying carbon crit bikes on the local dirt pump track to the delight and awe of onlooking youngsters). The camaraderie on the team is palpable, even after just a few minutes of interaction with them.” – Heidi Swift