I stopped by the Cyclocross National Championships on a recent trip to Bend Oregon. I wasn’t there on official business, so it was fun to not have an agenda. The lack of pressure though was more than made up for in mud, mud, and more mud. Keeping my gear clean was a chore in the rain and mud, but the riders were tough, the crowd was enthusiastic, and the event was great.
Next time, I’ll plan ahead and cover more of the event. There’s a lot going on other than just the riding. There’s race preparation, the inevitable exhausting aftermath, vendors, and a huge cowbell slinging crowd.