You are hereWant dirty, filthy bike racing? Try cyclocross!
Want dirty, filthy bike racing? Try cyclocross!
The always stylish and suave Fred just posted the following to our oft-neglected (and incredibly crappy, thanks drupal) forums:
The most fun you can have on a Tuesday night seriously, I did the series last season, I'll tell you its seriously addictive. I'll be out there doing it up on my fixed monster cross. If any one is interested and needs a ride out there hit me up.
freD
more info at http://dirtderby.com
Normally bike racing seems kinda goofy to me, but this is the kinda thing I could actually get into. If you don't know what "cyclocross" is, think dirt motocross tracks with occasional obstacles, being raced on by beer swilling cretins on road bikes with skinny, knobby tires.
Due to the danger of injury and impalement (ok maybe not the second part) they do require helmets, but unlike OTHER stuffy racing organizations there aren't any licensing or registration fees, you just pay to race that day. $12 for the first race, $5 for the second, $3 for the third, and if you want to race a fourth time they kill you. I think.
These races go down every Tuesday night from September 2nd to January 6th. Gates open at 5:30pm, racing starts at 6:30pm, and everything closes up by 9. Check http://www.dirtderby.com for more info, a registration form and directions to where it all goes down. If nothing else go watch a race, the spectating should be good.
Love it. I'm hosting a CX clinic on Sunday. Here are the details from TXBRA.org:
Hey there.
Everyone and anyone is welcome to an impromptu cyclocross clinic this Sunday. We'll walk through mounts, dismounts, pedaling efficiency, bunny hops (not full barrier hopping, mind you), run ups and more over dirt, grass, gravel and pavement.
Be sure to bring water, your bike, helmet and anything else you'll need when racing.
This isn't sanctioned by any team or group, just a few CX enthusiasts of a variety of talent levels. I've held many a clinic in prep for seasons of the Chicago Cross Cup which I founded.
Details:
Sunday, Sept 7
9am - 10:30am (or so)
Northwest Park: http://tinyurl.com/d5llp
I'm considering Wednesday AM practices as well – it's the only time that works with my schedule and the impending time change. Post work will be too dark since the park isn't well lit over the entire course. More to come on that.
Let me know if you can make it by responding here or through email. Thanks.
Joe Doyle
j@joedoyle.com
http://www.txbra.org/forum3/index.asp?page=loader&forumID=17