Cyclocross first began as a way to allow riders to keep fit over the winter by mixing riding, offroad skills and running. But is now a sport in its own right. Yes, it’s fun. Yes, it’s a good workout. But for me so much about cyclo-cross just isn’t right. Here’s why:
cyclo-cross
Where the pros can’t ride
There are UCI rules restricting the events a pro cyclist can ride meaning that if one wants to join a local event they could fall foul of the rules and risk a suspension. Here’s the relevant bit:
1.2.019 No licence holder may participate in an event that has not been included on a national, continental or world calendar or that has not been recognised by a national federation, a continental confederation or the UCI. A national federation may grant special exceptions for races or particular events run in its own country. 1.2.021 Breaches of articles 1.2.019 or 1.2.020 shall render the licence holder liable to one month’s suspension and a fine of CHF 50 to 100.
In simple terms it means a rider is restricted from taking part in non-UCI approved competitions. It’s an interesting idea with the idea of a breakaway league being discussed but let’s put that aside.
Because right now it means some pros are barred from taking part in local events that might already taking place near you unless they get special clearance from the highest levels. In particular local cycling bodies are interested in enforcing this. US pros for example have been warned about consequences if they take part in non-USA Cycling approved events.
Why I hate cyclocross
Glamourous it isn’t. Yes, it’s fun. Yes, it’s a good workout. But so much about cyclo-cross just isn’t right. Here’s why: It’s only an hour long. I was doing longer races when I was 15. Give me a six hour classic. The start of the cyclo-cross season reminds me that the road season is … Read more