Randall's Island Crit

The Randall’s Island Crit by Central Park Raccoons was already set to be a fast, intense race, but throw in a torrential downpour and a storm alert, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for chaos on two wheels. Despite the brutal conditions, the race went on with a stacked pack, and OBK Racing was ready to take on the challenge.

From the start, there was an air of nervous energy—riders questioning just how much grip the soaked pavement would offer, how aggressively the tight corners could be taken, and how long the pack would hold before the inevitable splits. As soon as the race kicked off, it became clear that the rain wasn’t just a minor inconvenience—it was a game-changer. Within a lap, the field fractured into three distinct groups, with every turn testing our ability to stay upright and every acceleration demanding maximum focus. Eliminations came fast; if you got lapped, you were out.

Two of our OBK riders found themselves in the chasing group, grinding to close the gap on the leaders. Lap after lap, they pushed, coming agonizingly close to bridging, only for the front group to surge through a set of corners and stretch the elastic once again. The pace was relentless, the spray from the wheels ahead making visibility just another obstacle to overcome.

Eventually, we had to concede, locking in our best finish of the day with a hard-fought 7th place. It wasn’t the podium, but in a race where survival alone was a victory, we walked away proud.

Despite the storm, despite the soaking-wet kits and the near-misses on slick corners, the experience was electric. The energy, the organization, and the sheer grit from every rider out there made it unforgettable. OBK Racing will be back—hopefully next time under clearer skies, but either way, ready to race.