July 2003

Wisconsin Cycling Association Expands 2003 Bianchi Cyclocross Series to Seven Races

The Wisconsin Cycling Association has expanded their 2003 Bianchi Cyclocross Racing Series to Seven Races. After a very successful 2002 Series that saw record attendance by racers and spectators, they are excited to offer Cyclocrossers plenty of quality racing right here in Wisconsin.

Cyclocross, for those unfamiliar, first became popular around 1900 in Europe as a way for cyclists to stay in shape off-season and have some fun. It is an exciting sport that mixes criterium like speed with off-road riding skills. Races vary from 30-60 minutes in length, dependent upon level, and each course covers varied terrain such as grass, dirt and pavement. Cyclocross is probably most famous for barricades. Riders approach 15" high barriers that stretch across the course, at nearly full speed, dismount their rigs, carry them over the barriers, remount and proceed down the course with nearly no loss of speed. It is an amazing thing to see when done correctly.

The WCA will be awarding Series points in the following categories: C Women and C Men (beginners), Juniors (under 18), B Men (intermediate), 30+ and 40+ Masters Men (Changed for 2003), A/B Women (elite) and A Men (elite).

The "C" races offer anyone a chance to give Cyclocross a try. Also, no need to spend money on a new cyclocross rig just yet, as you can race your mountain bike, just less the "pointy" bar ends. Heck, even an old touring bike or hybrid with knobby tires would be OK.

The Series will start off on September, 28th at Lapham Peak State Park, in Delafield. Other race locations are Badger Prairie Park in Verona, Cam-Rock Park in Cambridge, UW-Whitewater campus, Milwaukee's Estabrook Park and Triangle Sports Area Park in Green Bay. The series will conclude on November 16th with the Wisconsin State Cyclocross Championships to be held at the Angell Park Speedway, in Sun Prairie.

For questions about the Series, contact Jerry Pearce at 414.961.1110 (jpearce@rainbowjersey.com), or John Ericsson at 608.438.6707 (jpebikes@hotmail.com).