Cyclists Endure Blistering Heat in Elmhurst Leg of Criterium

The results are in for the Elmhurst leg of the Prairie State Cycling Series bike race, which was held Friday.

Related: Elmhurst Cycling Classic: Images of Friday's Race

Racers endured 95-degree heat, and as a result, the pace of the race was slower than usual, according to Prairie State Cycling. The race's official photographer was even overcome by the heat.

An article on the Prairie State website gives a play-by-play of the pro races in detail, along with the challenges faced by riders due to the heat.

Following are links to the final standings in each of Friday's races:

• Category 5
• Category 4
• Women Category 3/4
• Masters 3/4
• Category 2/3
• Masters 1/2/3
• Pro Women 1/2
• Pro Men 1/2

The race, which is in Lake Bluff Saturday and St. Charles on Sunday, is also being promoted by the Brain Research Foundation, which is using the 2013 cycling series to bring attention to education initiatives around brain health and proper helmet use.

"BRF reached out to the Prairie State Cycling Series to find out how they could be involved in promoting a healthy lifestyle and keeping our kids safe and concussion-free, and we are proud to partner with them to bring their message to our bike race fans," said Marco Colbert, Executive Director of Prairie State Cycling Series in an article on the BRF website.

The event also benefits World Bicycle Relief, which puts bicycles in the hands of individuals in need of transportation in underprivileged communities around the world.

For more photos of the Elmhurst Cycling Classic, click here.