2018 USA Cycling Cyclocross Championships
Downhill run in the second half of the course.
Concrete steps, a sandpit, railroad-tie stairs, barriers, and back-to-back run-ups set the stage for the 3.4km USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships held in Reno, Nevada. The course was setup at San Rafael Park on a weekend with beautiful, unusually pleasant, January weather which made for a fast course.
I was able to attend some of the preliminary races including the Industry Men's and Women's races and the Junior Men's and Women's 13-14 year old division. The athleticism and endurance of these competitors clearly stood out as they conquered some slick, early morning frost, especially on a downhill turn in the first half of the course. Watching these athletes approach an obstacle, in some cases dismount and shoulder their bike, run through it, and smoothly remount was fascinating.
A crash over the creek obstacle in the first half of the Junior Men's division.
I had to do some research on cyclocross as I've never attended or heard of these style of race before. The challenge, at least in my view, is the variety of technical skills required to complete different types of obstacles and terrain. Weather certainly comes into play as a muddy course adds to the event. This was a weekend highlight for me and gave me the opportunity to shoot an event that I never have before. Super fun!
Here are some more photos from the day.
