Get Your Cyclocross On

Get ready for GO Cross with a little cyclocross preview this summer.

GO Cross is Aug. 31-Sept. 1, but you can start training now with SummerCross from Roanoke Parks and Recreation and East Coasters Bike Shop.

This series is a fun cyclocross bike racing event for beginner to experienced riders. Racers will ride the one-mile mixed surface CX course at Fallon Park as many times as they can in 35 minutes. New this year is a 20-minute recreational ride, which is perfect for new racers.

SummerCross includes three events – race one or all three – on Aug. 7, 14, and 21 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Registration for SummerCross is open.

What’s cyclocross, you ask?

Cyclocross can be described as a bike race in a steeplechase format with riders that hop on and off bicycles while leaping over barriers and sloshing through mud, navigating gravel pits, stairs, and barriers. GO Cross will open the UCI season on Labor Day weekend and is an official USA Cycling race, which will draw professionals from all over the country. The Roanoke Outside Foundation is organizing GO Cross.

Even if you’ve never tried the sport, it can be a great option for those who have been on a mountain bike. Use SummerCross as a warm-up and save the date to take part in GO Cross.

There are categories for all levels, from juniors to pros. Learn more and register for GO Cross online.