Sunday was disappointingly dry for the first round of the SouthernCross CX cyclocross series. Still, the course managed a couple of boggy sections, some greasy off-camber corners, and the classic uphill obstacles, so all was not lost.
Around 90 people turned up to suffer across the three grades. The development grade ran first, for 30 minutes plus a lap on any bike you like. Then B grade went for 40 plus one, cross bikes only. This was the biggest field with the most fancy dress. Finally the A graders settled in for 50 plus one, deep in the pain cave.
The joy of SouthernCross is that it’s part race, part social mixer. Race director Scott Emmens said that people are encouraged to wear skin suits or fancy dress – and anyone who does gets extra series points and a head-start in the race.
Despite all the fun, there was some legitimately fast racing going down as well. Logan Horn took a narrow, exciting win in A grade. A full list of results are available here.
Logan Horn heading for the win.
A lot of the magic of these events comes down to how they’re run, and Scott has got it just right. Prize giving is a prime example – It’s Scott telling stories, gently ribbing racers, and giving out a huge table-full of swag.
The man behind the madness, still fresh after A grade.
The next round of the six race series is at Lake Ellesmere on June 19th. Development starts at 11 and it’s open to any bike. Enter here, get out there, and get muddy.
A last little treat to end with.
