The CT Cycling Advancement Program is proud to present the Matthew Waskiewicz Junior Race Series, “The Waz, presented by Richards Corporation.

The CCAP and the Connecticut cycling community suffered a tremendous loss in 2020,  with the passing of our dear friend and ardent supporter, coach, and volunteer, Matt Waskiewicz. Matt’s wide smile and open arms were a welcome sight to all, especially those new to our sport; not a day goes by without “The Waz” in our thoughts. 

Coach Matt’s ability to find the natural athlete and foment drive and ambition in every young rider brought out the best in us all, and it is our goal to continue his passion with renewed vigor as we open our 2026 road racing season. In recognition of the legacy left by Matt, Richards Corporation, his former employer, has stepped up to sponsor our summer junior race series, now known as the Matthew Waskiewicz Junior Race Series, aka “The Waz, presented by Richards Corporation.

“I am so overwhelmed to have Richards Corporation and the CCAP families remember and honor Matt,” remarked Lisa Waskiewicz, Matt’s widow. “The Doyle family allowed Matt to arrange his schedule to make time for something he truly loved. He loved coaching, helping kids, and anyone new to “The Rent” (Rentschler Field).

This road race series will run throughout the summer and into the first week of fall and is open to any youth cyclist aged 9-18.

Series Schedule:

Fundraising Fun Ride Event - CCAP Breakaway Benefit – Saturday May 30, 2026 at Norbrook Farm Brewery

Race #1 - Sunday May 31, 2026  Lime Rock Cycling Grand Prix at Lime Rock Park, Salisbury CT

Race #2 – Sunday June 7, 2026  Nutmeg State Games at Walnut Hill Park, New Britain CT

Race #3 – Saturday June 28, 2026  Thompson Cycling Grand Prix at Thompson Motor Speedway

Race #4 – Tuesday July 7, 2026  TNC Junior Race Night at Rentschler Field, East Hartford CT

Race #5 - Saturday July 18, 2026  Sunshine Criterium at Ninigret Park, Charlestown, RI

Race #6 - Tuesday July 28, 2026 TNC Junior Race Night at Rentschler Field, East Hartford CT

Race #7 – Sunday August 9, 2026  CCAP Tokeneke Classic Road Race at East Hartland, CT

Race #8 – Friday September 25, 2026  The New Haven GRAND PRIX at Downtown, New Haven CT

About the CT Cycling Advancement Program

The Connecticut Cycling Advancement Program's mission is to ensure that Connecticut's youth and their families have access and exposure to an organized state-wide youth cycling league. Additionally, youth and their parents should be able to see a clear avenue that allows them to develop as far as their ambition, skills and abilities can take them. The sport of cycling teaches a child or young adult a wealth of values, social skills and mindsets that help them become successful in every aspect of their life, and the CCAP is proud to provide kids across the state with the opportunity to participate in a safe and positive team-based environment.