Utah Cyclocross Seires #3

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah - Securing new venues is one of the biggest challenges a cyclocross promoter has to face each season.  For the last few years in Utah the venues have pretty much stayed the same but this year series promoter Matt Ohran has added 2 new ones to spice up the menu for 2010.

So far, the most unlikely of the 2 new venues has raised the bar both in terms of technical challenge and fun for Utah crossers.  Stop #3 for the UTCX found us at the Utah State Fairpark.  What the grounds lack in elevation change they more than make up for in variety of terrain, technical turns and unique natural obstacles.  

Racers were treated to a course that features ample amounts of pavement, slick grassy turns, a rodeo arena, and wood chips.  Yes, wood chips.  The middle section of the course featured a wood chip pile to test riders power and several wood chip covered 180 turns to test their technical skills. (video here) This section would prove to be decisive in many races this hot October day.

In the Mens A race perennial strongman Bart Gillespie (Revolution) asserted his authority early.  He was able to get a gap on the opening lap using a combination of bunny hops, power, and superior technical skills to bring home his 3rd win in as many weeks.  Kevin Hulick (Bikers Edge) kept the pressure on  Bart in a solo effort to finish a solid 2nd place.  In the fight for 3rd Thomas Bender (Kuhl) was able to capitalize on a late race flat by Eric Rassmussen (Kuhl/Specialized) to take the final podium spot.

The Womens A's category has provided some of the most exciting races of the series.  In the prior 2 rounds we have seen 2 different winners with current Master National Champion Kris Walker (Contender Bicycles) in second spot both weeks.  For a majority of the race Kris and race #1 winner Sarah Kauffman (Elete) traded pulls at the front. With 3 to go Kauffman opened up a gap over Walker.  Walker dug deep launching a counter attack which proved to be the winning move. Mt. Bike Pro Erica Powers (Revolution) held off her team mate Jennifer Hanks for 3rd to round out the podium.

Hopefully the Fairgrounds will be a permanent stop for UTCX. This is a classic course that rewards riders with a balance of sheer fitness and finesse.  With more ground that has yet to be utilized the future of this venue is very bright indeed.

All Photos by Chris See

Thomas Cooke (X-Men)	Masters 35 B Racers	Tim Az (Team Big RIng/RealCyclist)

Slyfox Cash Zone!	Kris Walker (Contender Bicycles)	James Glen (Glen Bros Racing)