In December, the nation’s best cyclocross racers, along with a huge contingent from the bike industry, will descend on Portland International Raceway (PIR) for the final stop in the six-race US Gran Prix of Cyclocross.
The “Portland Cup”, which is (surprisingly) being partially sponsored by the Portland Office of Transportation, is likely to crown the 2007 USGP ‘cross champion.
Race Director Brad Ross says they’ll use the same course from the 2004 National Championships that were also held at PIR. He adds that,
“We expect having our race in December means that weather is going to play a huge role in the outcome here…the rider who handles the slippery, muddy technical sections the best is the person who will win the race.”
Just how muddy was the ’04 race? Check out these photos:
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To see some more shots from that race, check out my photo gallery.
Judging from the record turnouts at the Cross Crusade, combined with Portland’s growing reputation as a cyclocross mecca, this event is going to be huge. For more information, check out the official event website.