Cyclocross event challenges racers
Competitive running and cycling are difficult enough. But for some, each activity alone is only half the challenge.
So what do you get when you combine the two?
It's called cyclocross -- a grueling bicycle race that challenges a rider's physical strength and endurance.
"It is really intense and the duration of the race is relatively short," said Jes Cisneros, 36, of East Dundee, who has been riding for about three years. "Even though there is a lot of suffering involved you know it will be over soon."
If you have never seen a cyclocross race, imagine a steeplechase with water hazards, hurdles, sandpits and hills.
But instead of riding horses, competitors ride --and often carry -- modified mountain bikes with knobby tires around short, obstacle-laden courses that are usually between a half-mile and a mile long.
"It is probably one of the more exciting cycling events," said Jeff Provisor, owner of Main Street Bikes in Carpentersville. "It is beautiful to see how gracefully riders can dismount, jump over the hurdle and get back on their bike in one fluid motion. It is also entertaining to see someone trip and fall."
Main Street Bikes, in conjunction with North Branch Cycling, will sponsor the second leg of the Chicago Cyclocross Cup on Sunday at Carpenter Park, Lord and Maple avenues in Carpentersville.
Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. and races start at 10 a.m.
Now in its third year, the race continues to grow. More than 200 riders are expected to compete in nine categories for men, women and juniors.
Riders compete for cash and prizes.
Depending on the category, races last 15, 30 or 45 minutes. Each lap takes about six minutes.
Racers can expect a few changes to the 1ΒΌ-mile course that winds through trees, open fields, hills and sandpits.
Most notably, Provisor said, the sand pit requires riders to maintain control while also steering their bike through a curve.
Also, if there's some rainfall in the coming days, the creek that runs through Carpenter Park will pose a challenge to many riders.
"Racers will have to cross the river at three points, and if we get enough rain I am told there could be some flowing water," Provisor said.
For details, call Provisor at (847) 783-0362 or visit www.chicrosscup.com.