The 23rd The 13th edition of the Green Mountain Stage Race (GMSR) returns to the Mad River Valley on Labor Day weekend. This four-day stage race for road cyclists draws 650-750 top professional and amateur cyclists to the region to compete. Last year, the GMSR was the largest stage race in North America with over 730 competitors. For many racers, the GMSR is the highlight of their racing season.
Registration for the 2024 GMSR began in June, and according to race director Gary Kessler, registration numbers are at their highest in at least five years. “It’s gratifying to see so many racers registering early for this year’s GMSR,” Kessler said. We’ve already had racers register from across the U.S. and Canada, as well as as far away as France and Belize.”
“The GMSR will once again host one of the strongest junior fields in North America this year. As in the past, junior racers who participate in the GMSR often compete at the highest level and join World Tour teams. Several former GMSR junior racers competed in this year’s Tour de France, finishing eighth and ninth overall. In addition, one of our junior racers had a great season, winning two major races and finishing second in the final prep race of the Tour de France. So come along and cheer on these kids who are future starters in what is often one of the fastest and most exciting categories in the event,” said Kessler.
The race starts on Friday, August 30, with the time trial of the first stage. This stage starts on Flat Iron Road in Warren Village and goes up East Warren Road to the intersection with Common Road in Waitsfield. Racers start in 30-second intervals and race against the clock to set the fastest time.
The Stage 2 circuit race on August 31st will be held on a course that starts in Randolph and travels along Routes 12A and 12. Each lap is 37 miles long and competitors will race one, two or three laps. The Mad River Road Race will be held on Sunday, September 1st. This course includes two “hors category” (above category) climbs, including the climb up Middlebury Gap, finishing at the summit of App Gap. Most competitors will race a 65-mile course, but the Pro/1/2 field will have the pleasure of riding some additional uphill miles. The Burlington Criterium will be held on Monday, September 2nd on the 1-kilometer course in downtown Burlington.
“The criterium course is one of the most exciting and challenging in the United States and offers a fantastic, spectator-friendly experience while enjoying a meal on Church Street,” said Kessler.
“We are still looking for a venue for the awards ceremony on Friday. If you are a company and would like to host this awards ceremony, which starts at 4pm and attracts over 100 people to your company, please contact
The GMSR still needs volunteers for this year’s event. Help is needed in many areas. There are three King/Queen of the Mountain sprints on Sunday and the organizers need help with scoring these and at the finish at the top of App Gap.
“These are great places to watch the races up close. If you would like to volunteer, we would love to hear from you. Please call 496-5415 or email
