The annual and infamous Little 500 race is looking a little different for the second year in a row. 

The 2020 bike race was canceled last year due to the rising COVID-19 cases but this year the IU Student Foundation decided on March 4 to reschedule the race to May 24, weeks after Indiana University classes are over. The reason for delaying the race is to limit the spread of COVID-19. With no spectators allowed in the stands, only essential volunteers, riders, and coaches allowed, the bike teams participating are still motivated and practicing daily leading up to the race. 

There are fewer teams competing in this year’s race with the majority being from Greek chapters. Sigma Kappa sorority bike team is composed of three seniors (Ellie Fissenger, Rebecca Leitner, Sarah Knoch), two juniors (Peyton Hilbert, Audrey Watson), and one freshman (Emmy Hedges). 

“I just like ride my bike as much as possible, go to the track as much as possible, get to know as many people in the Little 5 community as much as possible, and just do what I can to not get eliminated from the race and be able to do it,” said Fissinger. 

Teams must wear a mask not only during the race but practices as well. COVID-19 protocols are taken seriously by the IU Student Foundation to the extent of potential elimination from the race. 

“It’s easy to be eliminated,” said Fissinger. “It’s hard to breathe when you’re wearing a mask when you’re on the track.”

In the fall semester, certain events and cycling skills were not allowed such as pace lining where the riders bike directly behind each other in a straight line. These events and rules are no longer a problem for the race in May. 

The Indiana University Little 500 event has been a strong tradition since 1951, drawing attention from many people in the area. The race being canceled last year caused an uproar but many of the cyclists are enthusiastic that the student foundation was able to come up with a compromise. 

Unfortunately, rookie Emmy Hedges on Sigma Kappa’s team is not allowed to participate due to IU Panhellenic Recruitment ending five days after Little 500 registration ends. Hedges said that she still goes on weekend rides in effort of getting used to being on the team and enjoys the company of her teammates. 

The preparation leading up to the big race involves much effort and dedication. 

“Especially during like these past couple of weeks with qualifiers and everything, it is a lot of work, it is a huge time commitment,” said Hedges.

The Little 500 community has been a rewarding experience for the seniors of Sigma Kappa’s bike team.

“I’m so thankful for all the friendships I made through it, even though this has been a weird year with everything, it’s nice that things are still being able to happen and the race is still happening,” said Knoch. “It’s definitely like a bittersweet thing for sure.” 

“The Little 500 community is really cool and it’s like you get to know so many people through it and it’s like so much fun and you’re also getting in really good shape and there’s nothing like this at any other university in the United States,” said Fissinger.