SoCalCross 2023/24 Season Races 1 & 2 a Success in Costa Mesa
Race #1 and #2 in the 2023/24 SoCalCross season are in the books, following a successful Turkey Trot weekend of cyclocross racing at Estancia Park in Costa Mesa. Turkey Trot Cross benefitted two local charitable organizations, the Costa Mesa Alliance for Better Streets and Save Our Youth Center.
Clear, windless skies and mild temperatures greeted the racers on both days in Costa Mesa, leading to “just right” conditions with dry terrain all day. “I’m delighted to return to Costa Mesa”, says Series Director, Dorothy Wong. “This is a great venue with a variety of terrain, perfect for beginner and elite ‘cross riders alike.”
Both days kicked off with free “getting started” clinics to introduce new riders to cyclocross, with more than 20 in attendance. These free clinics will continue for the remainder of the racing season, kicking off at 8am on each race day and concluding with the start of the 9am first-timers one lap race.
In the Elite Men’s category, Lance Haidet (L39ION of Los Angeles) took home the win on both days, setting the fastest lap and fine-tuning his form in one of the final races before the USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championship, in which Haidet and others will square off against the last 3 defending champs – Curtis White, Eric Brunner, and Gage Hecht.
On the Elite Women’s side, Shantelle Tupaz (Sycip Devout Coffee) dominated the field with an impressive performance to take the win on Saturday. She then doubled up on Sunday – incredible for a rider with a ‘cross racing age of just 18.
Photo Credit Sawyer Pangborn
Full results for all categories:
Upcoming SoCalCross Events
SoCalCross plans 4 additional race weekends with 8 more race days this season. Each race day includes options for juniors, youth, senior, masters, and elite riders:
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Cross-itas Ventura (Lake Casitas) December 9-10, 2023
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Santa Cross (Woodland Hills) December 16-17, 2023
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CXLA (Los Angeles) January 6-7, 2024
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CACX (Woodland Hills) January 13-14, 2024
SoCalCross, founded in 2005, hosts cyclocross racing throughout Southern California. All racers and spectators can stay up to date via the SoCalCross’ Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for season updates.
