What is Cyclocross?
Cyclocross is best described as an off-road bike race mixed with a steeplechase running race. Riders race laps around a short course (2.5 to 3.5km / 1.5 to 2 miles) that usually features some pavement, some dirt, some woods, some steep hills and for good measure, some obstacles thrown in that require riders to dismount, work their way through and then get back on and ride some more. Races last about 30 to 60 minutes depending on the classification of the rider.
Cyclocross races are held in the fall and winter and have been huge in Europe going back at least fifty years, though interest in the U.S. has picked up at a rapid rate in recent years (the fastest growing sport in U.S. cycling). If you’re interested in witnessing one of the most exciting cycle sports or looking for a new way to keep in shape, check out the ROCHESTER CYCLOCROSS race as a spectator or a participant!
What does UCI, C1 and C2 mean?
That means some of the world’s best cyclocross racers will be right here in Rochester racing at the Rochester Cyclocross in Genesee Valley Park! Including a bunch of current and past national champions, the competition will be fierce – so don’t miss a second of it! UCI stands for the “Union Cycliste Internationale”, they are based in Switzerland and they are the worlds governing body for professional cycling. C1 and C2 refers to the level of international event – C1 is the highest level ( there are only SEVEN of these in the USA).
What is the admission price?
FREE admission for spectators! Parking is free as well!
Where can I park my car?
Ample (FREE) parking is available in the Strong Memorial Hospital/University of Rochester parking lot off of Kendrick Road. It’s about a three minute walk to the course.
Is the event anything like the Rochester Twilight Criterium?
Yes – it’s like an off-road version of the crit! In fact, it’s produced by the same production company (Full Moon Vista) and many of the same professional athletes race this event too.
What if it rains?
The event takes place rain or shine. With athletes coming in from all over the United States, Canada and parts of Europe, they race no matter what!
Where is the best place to watch?
Everywhere is the best answer! Come to the event and walk the course to see the action from different places. Most people walk the course backwards so the action is always coming at you – just a tip. And one of the crowd favorites is to watch from the beer & food garden which is both close to the course, the start area, the pro team vehicles and the finish line!
What else can I expect to see at the event?
The race is free to spectators, and while racing headlines the weekend the event has much more to offer. Other entertainment includes music with an amazing professional race announcer, a Food Truck Rodeo, an amazing beer garden featuring brews from Rochester’s own Rohrbach Brewing Company, and fantastic coffee from Winter Swan Coffee.
What type of bikes do the racers ride?
Cyclocross bikes are more similar to road bikes than mountain bikes, though they do usually have knobbier tires and cantilever brakes that help keep mud and leaves, etc., from getting clogged up in them.