SYDNEY, GET READY

Cyclocross returns to Sydney Park with a new name, a new, expanded course and new signature obstacles for you to play with.

Better still, it all kicks off mid-afternoon, after Sydney Rides The Park, meaning there will already be a carnival atmosphere as you arrive for rego and course practice.

Then we'll crank it up a notch in the event village as the beer, food and entertainment starts to flow, before letting the cowbells loose as the racing gets underway. Excited much? We certainly are.

SEE RESULTS

Or, skip straight to the event photos.

We’ve listened carefully to feedback from 2014 and have made a number of changes to the setup of the day – and the course. Registration will now open 2 hours before racing starts (from 1pm) and we have refined the registration process considerably.

The course will be open from 9am for practice (although it will only be exclusive to those racing from 2pm – the same time the event village opens) and we will be sweeping the course the day before to remove as many bindii as possible (we can’t, obviously, get them all – so come prepared).

As per our tradition of turning things on their head, we will again start with the elite men and women’s race – kicking off at 3pm – with a 45min + 1 lap suffer-fest to warm up the crowd.

Open men and women follow at 4pm with a 40mins + 1 lap race, before we alter the course a little for a 15min Kids Cross extravaganza at 5pm.

Presentations are at 5:30pm in the village before the main attraction, the Costume ‘Cross, hits the turf at 5:45pm. Costumes are mandatory and, with the beers well and truly flowing by that stage, and the sun just starting to dip, it should provide the perfect ending to a memorable afternoon.

RACING SCHEDULE

9:00am – Course open for practise and a spot of fun. 1:00pm – Registration opens 2:00pm – Final hour of practice (registered participants only). Event village opens (including bar). 3:00pm – Elite men & women (45 mins + 1 lap) 4:00pm – Open men & women (40 mins + 1 lap). 5:00pm – Kids race. 5:30pm – Presentations. 5:45pm – Costume ‘cross (costume mandatory, 25 mins + 1 lap).

Photos by Beardy McBeard, Ben Cirulis & Esjay.

FAQs

What is cyclocross? – Cyclocross is a mix of road racing and mountain biking that utilises a variety of surfaces – including sealed paths, grass, and dirt – to create a course, with a selection of obstacles thrown in for good measure. Courses are often tight and technical, but oh-so-much-fun.
Can anyone have a go? – Absolutely! The open category and, more specifically, the Costume ‘Cross, are designed for anyone that wants to give CX a go; no experience necessary. It’s a great way to try bike racing and have a whole heap of fun at the same time!
Do I need a special bike? – No. Some of the racers will be rocking cyclocross specific bikes, however any serviceable mountain bike with a helmet will do. Or a BMX. Or a fixie. Pretty much anything for that matter.
Will there be something to eat and drink? – Yes – there will be food trucks and a beer garden (serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks).
What do I need to bring? – If you are racing, you will need a mechanically sound bike and helmet (mandatory). If you are taking part in the Costume ‘Cross, you will also need a costume (go on, have a little fun!). If you are spectating, feel free to bring a picnic blanket or chair for your comfort, or simply sit on the grass and enjoy the show!
Can I bring a tent? – Yes, on 2x conditions: 1) you must not use stakes (use shot bags or weights instead) and 2) you must setup as directed by the events team (to make sure there is enough space for everyone).