Mud and snow theme sets Xilinx cyclocross

Photo by Peter Wayne

A modest team of riders braved the cold weather and mostly cloudy skies to experience the challenge of mud and snow racing.  Boulder Racing's cyclocross final race of the season was optimally located at the Xilinx Corporation campus in southwest Longmont. The campus contains a wooded area which serves a generous heap of mud whenever the weather is wet or snowy.

Racers slipped and slided around the course. Mud clung to bikes like molasses creating a decorative array of slop around spokes, derailleurs and brakes. Spinning tires flung a spray of mud on the cyclists jerseys, faces and even in their teeth until they were barely recognizable.

The race was a rare treat, as the Colorado front range is a semi-arid environment with most races being dry. Credit to the Boulder Racing as the event organizer by sticking to their 'any weather' policy.  It's ambition like this that keeps the sport exciting for racers and spectators alike.

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An incredible spill and fast recovery.  The cyclist literally took only 2 seconds to fall and get back in the race.