There is a buzz about town in the cycling community that may have made its way into the general public. The buzz is – Cyclocross.
Well, as Richard Freis stated in video above, cyclocross can simply be described as steeplechase on a bike. Or, it can be more specifically explained as follows: Cyclocross racing was developed in Europe in the early 1900’s as a way for road racers to remain fit during the off season. A typical cyclocross course is comprised of a 1.5 to 2 mile loop on a mix of paved and off-road surfaces over flat-to-rolling terrain. Usually, races last an hour plus a lap. But, what makes cross such a unique and challenging sport is that the courses always include obstacles that force riders to dismount and run while carrying their bikes!
For example, most courses feature short, steep (often muddy) sections, which are nearly impossible to ride. Courses usually include natural barriers and man-made barriers scattered around the course that require riders to carry their bikes over. It's this combination of cycling, stunt riding, carrying, running and scrambling over obstacles that makes cyclocross so exciting, such a phenomenal workout and so much fun!
It’s fun for the racers as well as the spectators. The short circuitous course makes it easy to see much of the action from a semi-central location. ‘Cross wouldn’t be what it is without the cheering, enthusiastic fans who love ‘cross as much as the racers themselves. Since ‘cross is a fall and winter sport, races take place in all kinds of weather. Often, the more miserable the weather, the better the racing!
The perfect opportunity exists for you to come out and see cyclocross action at its’ finest. The USGP (United States Gran Prix of Cyclocross) is coming back to Louisville this October 26th & 27th and BikeCicks/Team Louisville and its’ sponsors are taking a big part in this exciting, nationally recognized event.
Nanz & Kraft will be doing all the podium flowers for the top 3 places at every race all weekend.
BBC will be providing the beer in the VIP beer tent (and rumor has it that the course may go right through or right by the beer tent).
Heine Bros. will be selling coffee at the venue on both days. There’s nothing like a warm cup of coffee in one hand, and a cowbell in the other on a chilly fall day of cyclocross racing!
BikeClicks/Team Louisville is proud to provide “The Green Monster” – a man made obstacle that was a prominent, challenging feature of the races last year, and one that has become a bit of an icon of the series here. BikeClicks/Team Louisville also plays a very big role in course set-up and thanks to the tireless efforts of Mark Luking; organizing the many volunteers it takes to put on a successful event. Our team banner with all of your logos will be prominently displayed at the top of the infamous "Green Monster".
If you would like more information on how you may be a presence at the races, contact Mark Luking at
Mluking@msn.comThe weekend kicks off on Friday evening with packet pickup and a number presentation ceremony at Slugger Field. This is an event open to all, with a chance to meet & greet some of the top racers in the country and be a part of the exciting buzz that is this great event. The first race begins at 8 am on Saturday and continues until the elite races start at 1:45. These are the races you don’t want to miss. We’re all familiar with the “Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports”, but get ready for the most exciting two days of bicycle racing you have ever seen! We encourage all our sponsors to come out and enjoy these great days of racing – bring the kids, family & friends. Don’t forget your cowbell! The schedule of races can be found
here.