Boulder Cup – Cyclecross racing comes to Valmont Park

Posted: October 31st, 2011 | Author: JenniferSRoberts | Filed under: Sustainability | No Comments »

I couldn’t figure out where the noise was coming from as I sat in the office on an early Sunday morning. It sounded close enough to be the neighbors but more substantial. It wasn’t  until my husband woke up and reminded me of the Cyclecross event down the road from us that I finally connected the booming voice to the Boulder Cup cyclecross race.

We arrived for the women’s elite event at 2:40, which Katie Compton appeared to conquer with ease. She finished with about a 30 second cushion. I admit that I know next to nothing about cyclecross racing but I do know it is an amazing spectator sport. The course was tight and allowed a number of opportunities to watch the racers fly or flounder (in the sand) around the circuit. Watching the athletes quickly dismount and charge up the stairs was simply inspiring. I almost dashed home so I could ride like I was being chased to the nearest coffee shop.

Valmont Bike Park is fantastic and the setting itself, with the Flatirons soaring in the distance, made the event feel really epic. The whole park was brimming with athletes, participants, vendors (cyclecross audiences like both wine and BEER!) and a great vibe. I don’t know how many more events are scheduled but I’ll definitely get back to watch; I do know the park is currently closed for maintenance. The recent snow storm and racing has done a number on the track. In the meantime, enjoy these photos:

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