Oct. 23, 2012. On Wednesday, Oct. 24, the fourth season of the High Country Cyclocross Series will wrap up at the “Abby Construction Cyclocross Spectacular!” Held under the lights at the Boone Fairgrounds, the event is expected to draw top racers from across the region, as well as the local kids, first time racers, and cheering fans who make the events so much fun. Thanks to the generous support of Abby Design and Construction, the High Country’s premier builder of custom and sustainably designed homes and renovations, there is no cost for spectators, and races only cost $15 for adults and $5 for kids.
Over the past seven weeks, dozens of cyclists have lined up for the 30 minute “B” or 45 minute “A” race each week. Participants have ranged in age from under 12 to over 60. Members of the App State, Lees-McRae, and Virginia Intermont College cycling programs have taken part, the American Classic Pro Cyclocross Team traveled to the race, as have numerous first timers, moms, grandpas, and everyone in between.
Most participants use specialty cyclocross bikes, but many folks also chose to ride a normal mountain bike. The race course consists of about a mile loop through the grassy – and often muddy – fields and over gravel roads, and is punctuated by a short run-up on a steep hillside, and a pair of knee-high barriers that riders have to dismount and run over. Spectating a cyclocross race is practically a sport unto itself, with fans, friends, and other racers cheering and taunting racers as they navigate the serpentine course. Costumes are not uncommon, cowbells are plentiful, and a live DJ and the good folks from Blowing Rock Ale promise to keep folks energized.
The Cyclocross Spectacular! will feature cash prizes for the top men and women finishers in the “A” race, with “B” race winners taking home Panaracer tires. Racers from Charlotte, the Triad, and Tri-Cities are expected, as the event is sanctioned by USA Cycling, and offers an opportunity to improve racers standings early in the season.
For information, including directions and schedule, go to the Abby Construction Cyclocross Spectacular! web page, or check out High Country Cyclocross on Facebook.
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