The Nor Cal vs So Cal State Cross Championships takes place December 17th and 18th. The event was born 7 years ago after literally decades of thinking about it. Sam Ames, longtime cross racer and partner in Sambarn was a frequent traveler to Nor Cal back in the jungle cross days.
As So Cal cross grew into its own he always wanted to create a full state-wide champs and make it fun with a regional bragging rights overall competition. The format is simple: Over 2 days of racing riders score points for their respective region in each of the offered categories and the region with the highest points wins the homemade, newly created trophy plaque and bragging rights for the year. In addition, riders are also competing for individual titles in all categories with the “Bear of Cali” champion jerseys awarded. The prize list is impressive at over $4000 in cash and merchandise.
A new venue was secured this year due to excessive thorns at the legendary Hart Park venue. However, Sambarn says the new venue at Lake Ming is quite possibly even better with big, wide power sections, an off camber sand pit, run ups and a road strart and finish that would make any Euro course jealous. Parts of the course overlook Lake Ming and the surronding foothills. The promoters say consistent power riders will be favored but there is a need for plenty of bike handling prowess to master the off camber speed sections. Couple this with FREE, yes FREE camping (there are 50 sites, contact Sam), Belgian waffles, frites and the legendary Dave Towle on the mic and ladies and gentlemen, we have something truly special for California riders. Out of state riders are MORE than welcome to race and the event is USAC sanctioned for points. This race weekend also doubles as rounds 1 and 2 of the So Cal Cross Fever Series.
More Info – socalcross.org
Photo By Philip Beckman / PB Creative
Visit SoCalCycling.com’s Event Calendars for upcoming Road Racing Events, Mountain Bike, Cyclo-Cross & Gravel Events, Fun Rides, Gran Fondos & Tours and Pro Road Tour (PRT) Events throughout the year to find great cycling events to participate in or spectate.
