Today's Article

2Cyclocross was created in the fall to help riders 3keep in shape heading into the winter.

They ride on a short, closed-circuit course that forces riders to 4navigate different styles of 5terrain in a unique combination of road cycling, mountain biking, and even 6steeplechase.

"This is a pretty iconic course for us here in Boise."

Allan Schroeder is a professional cyclocross racer. He won a national championship in 2022. The former cross-country star at Boise State has been traveling since the beginning of September to compete in cyclocross, and he won the men's division at the Eagle Bike Park on Saturday.

"This is the most people we have had at a race in a long time, so it's really good to see. It helps when it is nice and sunny like this, some days in cross you'll have rainy conditions, and we are still out here racing just in the mud."

That leads us into the 7wacky portion. These riders will compete in any weather, but the course also features unique 8obstacles like sand, and a section where the riders have to 9hop off their bike, run up some stairs, hop back on, and then continue to ride. For many, this draws them to the sport.

"I honestly really like the 10sand pits or going upstairs, just the things where I have to get off my bike."

Cyclocross is one of the most 11spectator-friendly cycling events because of the short course, it brings its own vibe.

"Sometimes we do hand up beverage of choice, or bacon, or 12you name it — we'll get handed up and keep it fun."

But it's also an 13intense competition, with races for all ages, helping these riders 14stay in shape during the 15shoulder season.