Small, grassroots racing is gaining a foothold once more in south central Pennsylvania. In response to rising micromanagement from sanctioning bodies and a supreme desire to have the most fun possible, racers are returning to a more primitive kind of racing in the fall. Not an old sport (Though the idea of an off-season fitness booster has been around a long time. If you youtube search “cyclocross history”, there are some cool examples from the 50’s era), cyclocross has evolved rapidly in the last 20 years from rough, creative courses on the back forty to highly groomed racetracks. Permanent cyclocross courses may be gaining traction across the country, but long, endurance races called “UltraCross” are also high in popularity. Whether it is short 60 minute races or grueling 60 mile races, one thing is for sure, ‘Cross is in its prime.
After hosting three fun events last winter, Fast Forward Racing Productions is offering a full schedule of local racing opportunities this fall and winter. These seven events target the 45 mile area between Chambersburg and Carlisle Pennsylvania, but will readily draw from areas like Frederick (Maryland), Baltimore (Maryland), Harrisburg (Pennsylvania), and State College (Pennsylvania). Easy access to the Cumberland Valley will also entice racers from the Philly and DC areas to make the 2 hour trip up for some good, ole Pennsylvania fun.
The seven races that make up the series offer ample opportunities for new racers and veterans alike, and will span the range of what cyclocross can be. Beyond traditional 8-minute courses, the series includes night racing, ultracross, and team relay racing. It really is a simple equation with an early race, a kids race, a late race, and a potluck cook out. The series has points based on attendance, awards, and an end of year white elephant raffle! Each race is a little unique, and you’ll have to come see what’s going on in PA!
Series Schedule:
September 28th: Spring Rise CX
October 5th: Cross in the Night
October 6th: Tuscarora Gravel Queen (UltraCX)
November 1st: Secret CX
December 22nd: Christmas Cross
January 5th: SSCX Semi’s
January19th: Genessee Valley CX Relay
Info at www.fastforwardracingproductions.com/p/c2cx-series.html
Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Scott joined Bike World News as the Cyclocross Editor in 2012 before taking over as Tech Editor in 2016. He has also worked as a photographer for various pro teams and shoot races along the east coast of the US, including the 2012 US MTB National Championships, 2013 UCI Cyclocross World Championships, and 2016 UCI Road World Championships. Scott has a passion for performance and technology, with 35 years of riding and mechanic experience. He also enjoys soccer, running, teaching group fitness classes, and is the founder of Lancaster Beard Company.
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