Crazy for Cyclocross

Here's a Blog about CX from Frank:

I'm really having a good time this Fall concentrating on 'doing it in the dirt'. Some members have been corresponding to arrange MTB rides and I have done a few fun ones. Since the start of cross season I have been racing the SoCal Cross Prestige Series as well as the Back On Track Urban Cross Series. My son Josh has also been doing some Junior races and seems to be getting into it more and more as the races go on...particularly because he is presently leading his category in points.

I come from a motocross background and it has never left my blood. I like braking late, picking fast lines and block passing my competitors. I have been a cross cheerleader within our club trying to get other members interested in doing some races. If you like riding in the dirt and on the road as well, what is not to like about cross? It incorporates off-road riding skills and you get the speed of a road bike. It is gratifying to see others jumping on the band wagon. We are starting to get a core group of cross enthusiasts within Velo Allegro. There is always room for more so come out and join the fun if you haven't tried it yet.

Another fun thing about cross is the differences in the courses that we race on. The Fullerton 'Muckenthaler Cross' had lots of grass. The Costa Mesa 'Psycho Cross' had lots of dirt single track, a big downhill and some BMX whoops thrown in for good measure. The Oceanside 'Storm the Beach' was sand, sand and more sand. You can be sure of one thing for each race....they are HARD. Full gas from the start until the finish. Zone 4 for 40 minutes. It is painful, but when it is all over it was a blast.

I also like the camaraderie of cross races. Everyone is low key and friendly. It is a group of people who like an unusual sport and find the bond in doing it together. Lots of cowbell ringing and "Go, go!", "Keep it up!", "You're going great!" I find a lot of motivation in my teammates and strangers cheering me on.

I look forward to our cyclocross group getting bigger and bigger. Come out and have some fun. It is a great way to stay fit in Fall. It is my favorite time of the year for riding my bike!

Frank