Philadelphia Cycling Classic Returns to Manayunk

After a 10-year absence, the Philadelphia Cycling Classic returned to Manayunk this past weekend, bringing professional cycling back to one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable and challenging race courses. Joe, Jonah VB, and Andy were out along the route capturing the action, atmosphere, and crowds throughout the day.

Cyclists race through Manayunk during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic.
Cyclists racing in the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk. Veracity Studios/Joseph Gidjunis
Cyclists compete in the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk, Philadelphia.
Cyclists racing in the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk. Veracity Studios/Jonah van Bemmelen
A cyclist races through Manayunk during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic.
A cyclist racing in the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk, Philadelphia. Veracity Studios/Joseph Gidjunis

The Philadelphia Cycling Classic has long been known for its demanding course through the streets of Manayunk and Philadelphia, particularly the legendary Manayunk Wall. The steep climb has become one of the race’s defining features, challenging cyclists while giving spectators an incredible place to watch the competition unfold.

Photographers Jonah van Bemmelen and Joe Gidjunis work along the course during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk.
Behind the scenes of Jonah VB and Joe G. at the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk. Veracity Studios/Andrew Hoffman
Cycling race supporters pose with a handmade sign reading “Smile if your butt hurts” during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic.
Cycling race supporters pose along the course with a handmade sign reading, “Smile if your butt hurts.” Veracity Studios/Jonah van Bemmelen

Throughout the weekend, our photographers covered the cyclists racing through the neighborhood, the energy of spectators lining the course, and the moments happening beyond the competition itself. For Joe, the event also turned into an opportunity to reconnect with neighbors, colleagues, and familiar faces who came out to welcome the race back to Manayunk.

Cycling race supporters cheer and wave as cyclists pass through Manayunk during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic.
Cycling race supporters cheer and wave as cyclists race past along the course in Manayunk, Philadelphia.Veracity Studios/Jonah van Bemmelen
A woman paints a scene of the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic as the race unfolds in Manayunk, Philadelphia.
A woman paints a scene from the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic as the race unfolds in Manayunk, Philadelphia. Veracity Studios/Jonah van Bemmelen

Events like the Philadelphia Cycling Classic are always exciting to photograph because they combine professional sports, Philadelphia neighborhoods, community, and unpredictable moments happening throughout the day.

A “Welcome to the Manayunk Wall” sign hangs along the course during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic.
A sign reading “Welcome to the Manayunk Wall” hung along the course of the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk, Philadelphia. Veracity studios/Jonah van Bemmelen
Two men hold humorous motivational signs for cyclists tackling the Manayunk Wall during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic.
Two men hold humorous motivational signs cheering on cyclists tackling the Manayunk Wall during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk, Philadelphia. Veracity Studios/Jonah van Bemmelen

After a decade away, it was great to see cycling return to the streets of Manayunk—and even better to be there documenting it.

Philadelphia Cycling Classic staff ride a motorcycle along the race course with a “Yeah Philly” sign in Manayunk.
Philadelphia Cycling Classic staff ride a motorcycle along the race course with a “Yeah Philly” sign during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk, Philadelphia. Veracity Studios/Jonah van Bemmelen
Philadelphia Cycling Classic staff ride a motorcycle along the race course with a “This is basically Rocky” sign in Manayunk.
Philadelphia Cycling Classic staff ride a motorcycle along the race course with a “This is basically Rocky” sign during the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic in Manayunk, Philadelphia. Veracity Studios/Jonah van Bemmelen

Take a look through some of our favorite Philadelphia Cycling Classic photos from the weekend and the return of professional cycling to Manayunk. Want to see more from the Philadelphia Cycling Classic? Follow us on Instagram for more photos, behind-the-scenes moments, and highlights from the weekend in Manayunk.

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