Get Dirty

Now that the road race season is over many are looking forward to cross. That right, it’s time to get dirty and drink some beer.

Cyclecross, or just cross, is an interesting hybrid of road and mountain biking with some running and obstacles thrown in for good fun. At times it’s hard to think of it as racing with everyone so jovial and carefree before a race. A complete 180° from the general seriousness of the road racing season. This isn’t to say the racing isn’t serious, because it is, it’s just a different kind of seriousness. Instead of racing for cash money many are turning themselves inside-out for a case of beer. There are even costume contests at some races to keep things interesting. It’s all kinds of fun for racers and spectators.

There are several ways to dip your cleats into cross if you’re like me and never raced it before. The gang at Harriott Sports Performance run a Tuesday morning clinic in upper Woodland Park. They cover general cross techniques and skills , dismounts and clearing barriers, and sometimes run a mock race at the end. It all depends on what people want to do and. More info.

If you can’t make Tuesday morning then Wednesday night’s Kore Kross workout at the Marrymoore Velodrome is for you. the first hour cover stretching and drills with the second hour being a ride/race. The cost of this clinic is $10 for adults and $5 for juniors. More info.

And if you rather rather watch others get dirty while you drink your beer then check out the schedule of local races.